Every CASA volunteer is a hero for the child they serve. Sometimes the difference is small and subtle, and other times it is clearly life changing. Following are several stories of kids who have benefited from a CASA volunteer.
Anthony's Story
At age 15, Anthony already bore numerous gang tattoos. Being homeless without either parent for three years (dad was in jail, mom passed away when he was seven), Anthony lived with relatives or friends, bouncing around as his welcome wore out. Although he hated the fighting and violence, his gang was his family and protection. Still, he managed to attend high school in
When I first met Anthony he didn’t know what to make of me, his CASA volunteer. He asked me why I was there and what my my agenda was. He called me “another dumb white man.” I told him I was there as a volunteer to help him be heard in court. I said "Let's give it four weeks, and if at the end you want me to go, I'll go away." At the end of the four weeks I asked if he wanted me to stay, and he said "Sure. And what's your name again?"
I've been Anthony's CASA for over two years now, and it's been an amazing experieince. As our friendship grew Anthony began confiding in me. He told me he hated the gang fighting and wanted out, so I found a doctor who removed Anthony’s tattoos pro bono. His teeth were rotting, so I helped him get dental service. Now he wants to graduate and get a job, but doesn’t want to get sucked back into the gang life at high school, so I'm helping him get his GED and a work permit. But most of all, Anthony wants a home, and we're working on that that as well.
-Bob K.
Benny's Story
Becoming a CASA was something I really wanted to do because children are so important to our future. A positive influence could help change a child’s path. I knew it would be good for the child but didn't quite realize how it would have such a positive influence on me. I love my role in the CASA program and see that I am making a positive difference in a child’s life just as the child is making a positive difference in mine.
I was with Benny last week at a TDM meeting and when I picked him up from school he brought along his teacher to meet me. He said that he was telling the teacher he had the best mentor (that's what he calls me) and he wanted her to meet me. Once we got in the car he asked what happens when he goes home to his dad's....would I get another "kid in foster care"? I said yes, and he said that will be luckiest little boy around. Of course it just made my day and I must have had the biggest smile on my face ever : )
-Julie S.
FROM THE CASA KIDS
Here is what the CASA kids had to say about their volunteer when asked on a recent survey:
What I like most about my CASA is…
- “He worked hard to get me back home and he never gave up.”
- “She is honest to me.”
- “She rocks and I love her no matter what happens!”
- “She cares, she’s on my side, she’s nice, and she’s smart.”
- “He says the right things to keep me focused and motivated.”
- “She’s really patient and understanding.”
- “She is willing to go the extra mile for me.”
Having a CASA in my life has made a difference because…
- “She knows what’s best for me.”
- “I actually have someone to talk to, someone that I trust.”
- “I now have better grades.”
- “She’s there for me every single time I call to talk to her ‘cause I need her.”
- “I have someone to look up to.”
- “My behavior has changed and I have improved in school and at my house.”
- “It gives me someone to be with since I don’t have my parents to take me out.”
- “I feel special.”
- “I have someone that I know will always care about me.”
