My Nonprofit Reviews

I was in CASA's very first class of advocates in 1993. I learned about CASA when the late Judge Black spoke at my Rotary Club about the organization coming to Santa Cruz County. I had worked with foster kids at Camp Opportunity, but felt I could make an ever bigger impact as an advocate. My first case was a 5-year old girl who loved to go to the park. One day when she wanted to go on the monkey bars but was afraid, I walked with her underneath the bars, and she felt safe. For me, that was symbolic of how I walked with her throughout her years in the foster care system. Over 25 years later, I am still in contact with her.
After the organization was established, I acted as one of CASA's first "Ambassadors," and helped spread out the word to the community. The news about the organization had to start somewhere, and I feel blessed to be a part of that movement. I recently joined CASA's Legacy Society; my gift will help make sure that this much needed organization can continue on.

I learned about CASA when the late Judge Black came to my Rotary Club and announced that the organization was starting in Santa Cruz and volunteers would be needed. The idea that I could make a difference in the life of a child struck a chord in my heart. It seemed like the right time for me, because I didn't have grandchildren yet.

I am proud to say that I was in the first graduating class and it is one of the most rewarding things I have ever done in my life because being among the first advocates was a scary thing, I will continue to help CASA with their important work in every way that I can.

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