As a CASA volunteer advocate, I have had the opportunity to work with children and their parents while they were experiencing trauma in their lives. It has been fulfilling to interact with families, offering them resources, guidance as they navigate through the through the system, and sometimes just a listening ear. Many of my own cases have resulted in reunification, which is always the goal. It has been exciting to see families continue to grow and become healthy, contributing members of our community.
I have been involved with CASA for over 20 years. My husband and I were foster parents for several years prior to my involvement in CASA. Advocating for children who find themselves living away from their mom/dad and many times their brothers and sisters is both rewarding and heartbreaking. Their stories can tear at your heartstrings. Remaining the child(rens) advocate throughout the case... which for many kids can feel like a lifetime... is crucial for the child. Sharing in Court how the child is doing, what they are feeling and what they need is an important part of what we do. The Chelan Douglas CASA Program is an amazing Program which is why I support it with both my time and financially.
I’ve been a Casa volunteer since 2012, and can honestly say it has been the most fulfilling, rewarding and heart-warming experience ever.
Knowing you can have a positive affect on a child’s life, future and wellbeing is priceless.
It’s not only an opportunity to help a child, it also offers guidance, counseling and direction to parents who have made bad choices and need a helping hand. Truly a life-changing benefit to all.
MAKE A DIFFERENCE IN A CHILD’S LIFE I know I have!
I’ve been advocating in the best interest of children for 5 years. I have had the privilege of representing children in Chelan and Douglas County through the Department of Children, Youth and Families and the Dependency Court System. This work is so important for children who cannot speak for themselves. This work has been not only a privilege, it has been an opportunity to serve my community, and an absolute JOY to develop relationships with kiddos ranging in age from newborn to 11 years old. Children who find themselves separated from parents, family and friends, now sleeping in an unfamiliar bed, sharing meals with strangers, trying to fit into a totally new situation. What an important time to just have a friend! Someone who comes to visit with them, who cares about them and remains consistent in their inconsistent world. Whether my time with them is a year or two, or in some cases, longer......I KNOW I HAVE MADE A DIFFERENCE IN THEIR LIVES.
Thank you, Chelan Douglas County CASA-GAL program staff for your tremendous support!
I have volunteered many, many hours for a wide variety of organizations and I have to say that the Chelan-Douglas CASA organization is by far the best organization I have ever been involved in.
Every person who is involved in CASA is excited to be doing what they are doing. The staff is amazing and the level of support is truly one-of-a-kind. When I first started, I was genuinely terrified about the seemingly daunting responsibility. The CASA staff held my hands for a good long time and now it is so rewarding to be a part of this organization.
I have advocated for 7 children total and currently represent four children. Two of my children are now released from their parents and I'm hoping their adoption will happen soon. My goals is ALWAYS to reunite the children with their biological parents but, unfortunately, that does not always work out. Adoption is the second best choice.
One thing that really surprised me is how much I enjoy working with the foster parents. Those folks are truly god-send and their commitment towards the kids is incredible.
All in all, I absolutely love volunteering for this organization and it is by far the most rewarding volunteer work I've ever done.