1. What made you decide to become a CASA?
Sue: I wanted to volunteer for a worthwhile organization in my community.
Candy: I retired and finally had time to volunteer for a worthwhile organization. Several people had mentioned CASA and I started seeking out information. The more I searched and talked to people the more interested I became. I decided to attend an Information Session and decided a yes.
2. What is your professional/volunteer background?
Sue: I worked for THRHEB Hospital for 30 years and volunteered for many committees in the hospital and the surrounding area. I volunteered for THRHEB Bluebonnet Cancer Camp for 15 years and after a heart event I became an advocate for the Women Heart of Washington DC organization by volunteering at community health fairs and a co leader for a Women Heart monthly support group.
Candy: I worked for 30 years as a Hair Stylist and then became an Officer Manager for HEB Behavior
Health for 15 years. I wasn’t able to commit to volunteer work before I retired.
3. What advice would you give to someone who is thinking about becoming a CASA?
Sue: Attend an Information Session at CASA to learn about this wonderful organization.
Candy: If you want to make a difference in a child’ life just take a little time to go to the Information
Session. Nothing required but your time and you can ask questions.
4. What has been the most challenging part of being a CASA?
Sue: The most challenging part is the sadness in the children’s eyes yet trying to gain their trust.
Candy: I think for me the most challenging thing is when I knock on the foster home door. I have to
remember to leave my world and self at the door. Then I walk into their world and try to readjust
to their needs and see the world through their eyes.
5. What has been the most rewarding part of being a CASA?
Sue: The most rewarding part is knowing the children are in a safe environment. When Candy and I now visit we get hugs and smiles, we even got homemade valentine’s day cards.
Candy: The most rewarding moments is when you finally see the smiles, get great hugs and hear
laughter.
6. Please share a special moment with us about your advocacy work with your CASA kid or on your case.
Sue: Two of our younger children were non-verbal when we first met, but now they run towards us and give us hugs. It makes your heart smile.
Candy: One day after a family visitation that was not productive it left the 11-year-old in tears. I sat down beside her and pulled her close and just held her. No words just understanding. That’s
when you know why you became a CASA Volunteer.
7. Is there anything else you would like to add about yourself or your CASA experience?
Sue: The experience has brought forth many emotions both good and sad. As a CASA volunteer you hope your involvement is helping the children move forward in our world.
Candy: As a CASA volunteer you have the chance to be a voice and strength for a foster child and their future.
Child Advocacy Specialist, Luisana Sanchez says, “There are not enough words to say how much of a pleasure it is to work with Candy and Sue! This fierce dynamic duo does not walk away from a challenge. Their current case has 7 children with 5 different placements with different parental visitation days! It is very rare that a visit is missed by these two. The bond that has been formed with this group is what I think CASA’s mission is about. Candy and Sue are amazing with their diligent interaction with the family and communication with all legal parties. I am very grateful for their hard work and dedication to CASA of Tarrant County.”