Retired Educator and CASA Volunteer Christy Balraj on Educational Advocacy

Christy Balraj on Educational Advocacy

As a retired educator, Christy continued her work with children as a CASA volunteer.

I had no idea what I wanted to be when I grew up. My mom was a teacher, my father found teachable moments in just about everything we did, my favorite aunt is a retired teacher, and a close friend and mentor is a retired teacher. Looking back, I always gravitated to jobs working with kids. I am saying all of this to say, it should have been no surprise to anyone when I declared Elementary Education as my major in college. Not long after college I earned my master's degree in Educational Administration. Fast forward 30+ years, I am a retired educator and immensely proud to continue my work with children as a CASA.

Educational advocacy for kids in care is of the utmost importance. Our kids' lives have never been stable, once in care they are at risk of being shuffled from one placement to another. Student transiency creates gaps in learning and educators work tirelessly to close those gaps. So as an advocate it is imperative that I maintain a presence in my child's school to make sure the gaps are closing and to help provide continuity. Educators appreciate information that will help make their interactions with our children more positive and productive. I chose to email my teachers and administrators monthly so I could reinforce or reward my child during our monthly visit. Included in every email was the assurance I would do my best to support the school and my child. The school, foster home and I were a united front and we worked hard to see our child succeed, as a result, we celebrated many times this year.

"Education breeds confidence. Confidence breeds hope. Hope breeds peace."

 Confucius summed it up perfectly. We cannot change our children's past but through educational advocacy we can put our children's lives on the right trajectory to achieve some measure of peace. This shall be my mantra going forward.

Meet Board Member Matt Montague

Why CASA? Our mission is CRITICAL.

What first caused you to get involved with CASA? I have heard about CASA for years, but was never very familiar with the organization and its mission. After having two kids of my own and learning more about CASA, it was clear this was a place that I was interested in being involved. 

What keeps you coming back every month in helping CASA? The kids. These kids need advocates, a friend, someone in their corner, that is willing to fight for their interest. 

What would you say to a potential supporter? I would ask them to consider the missions of the other organizations they support and to compare against CASA’s. Our mission is CRITICAL. 

Why do you think it’s important for your local community to support CASA and what they do? Our kids and youth are our community’s future. All children are a gift from God and deserve a chance to thrive in this world. If their own parents and families either can’t provide that or choose not to, then it is critical there is someone there to interceded on a child’s behalf. 

Do you want to share some encouraging words to our volunteers? Thank you for providing the gift of your time and your heart for the kids you are serving. My young family is a daily reminder of the need for present and positive influences in our kids’ lives. Your work is critical. Thank you for your passion, for doing something bigger than yourself, and for serving these kids!

Meet Volunteer Eric Leigh

1. What made you decide to become a CASA?

I joined to support my wife since she thought this would be a great opportunity to become involved more with the community but didn’t know much about CASA. The training really opened our eyes. We realized how much good we could do for these kids that needed so much. 

2. What is your professional/ volunteer background?

I worked in water supply/irrigation extension and research for Texas A&M University for a little over a decade before moving to the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality as an investigator in the Public Water Supply section.

3. What advice would you give to someone who is thinking about becoming a CASA?

Becoming a CASA can be very fulfilling, but there will be very frustrating times and situations in which are out of your control. However, focusing on your CASA kid and ensuring that you continue to be voice for them during this difficult and uncertain times makes it worth it and your child will appreciate it as well.

4. What has been the most challenging part of being a CASA?

When the child becomes frustrated and does not understand why they are still in foster care and back with their parents, they look at you for answers. You know your answers will never be enough. But seeking input from your supervisors can help provide the you need to help provide guidance to the kids. A lot of times, they just want to be heard so just listening them helps out a lot.

5. What has been the most rewarding part of being a CASA?

The best times are those visits or moments when you have really connected with your kids. It could be that you were able to help talk them through a very emotional situation, or as simple as seeing them smile when they realized you are truly there for them.

6. Please share a special moment with us about your advocacy work with your CASA kid or on your case?

On one of my outings with one of my CASA kids, I brought ice cream as a nice change of pace. My CASA kid was having a bad day emotionally and there’s nothing like ice cream to help cure the blues. We sat together and ate ice cream and I was just able to be there for her and talk her through the situation. That made me realize the impact that we CASA volunteers have.

7. How have you been able to connect with your CASA kids during this time of quarantine? How are you advocating for them during this time? How has it impacted the children on your case?

I’ve been able to speak and see them by phone and video chat. My three kids are at two separate foster homes, so I’ve tried to ensure that they are either getting to see each other and are at least communicating with each other once a week.

CAS, Megan Edge said, “Eric has been on his case since February 2019.  He and his wife were partnering together on a multi-placement case, but due to life circumstances Eric has mostly been doing the work of two on his own! Eric has a great bond with his three CASA kids, and he works hard to ensure that they have sibling contact by checking in with OCOK and speaking up for them in court. Pre-COVID, Eric even arranged a sibling day at the movies, where the foster families brought them to the theater and they all saw a movie together with Eric.  Recently the case has been at a standstill, and Eric constantly reminds us all to keep pushing; asking what’s next for finding permanency.  He is a spectacular advocate!”

CASA Receives Grant Through the ToolBox Grants Fund at North Texas Community Foundation

CASA of Tarrant County is pleased to have received a $7,500 ToolBox grant from the North Texas Community Foundation! We are immensely grateful to the ToolBox 2020 investors for their support of our critical advocacy during this time.

The North Texas Community Foundation is dedicated to strengthening their 11-county region through effective philanthropy and civic leadership around key community issues. They serve local individuals, families and corporations by helping them achieve their charitable goals in a meaningful way – during and beyond their lifetimes. The Community Foundation is privileged to work in collaboration with fundholders, trusted professional advisors, nonprofit partners and civic leaders to make sure North Texas is strong for generations to come. The Community Foundation has $385 million in assets and made grants totaling $27 million in 2019. For more information, visit: www.northtexascf.org

Meet Volunteer Catherine Robuck

1. What made you decide to become a CASA?

I decided to become a CASA to make a difference in the lives of children in Foster Care. Families affected by foster care represent a marginalized population of our community, and the kids suffer despite having no control over their circumstances. I wanted to be able to care for children and their biological families by stepping in and advocating for a child's rights and best interests. Being a CASA has allowed me to know families and be a consistent adult for children whose lives have been turned upside down due to circumstances outside of their control.   

2. What is your professional/ volunteer background?

Professionally, I work as a pre-sales engineer for a technology company. I was finding that while I loved my work, I wanted to serve my community as well. I began volunteering as a CASA advocate about 2 years ago in July 2018. Outside of work and CASA, I am married to the sweetest husband (and helping heart) out there, serve with my church, and can often be found spending time with friends, out for a run or munching on an ice cream cone. 

3. What advice would you give to someone who is thinking about becoming a CASA?

My biggest advice for someone who is thinking about becoming a CASA is to attend an information session and go for it. It is incredibly rewarding, and you truly have the opportunity to make a difference in the life of a child, biological family members, and foster families. Children with CASAs have significantly higher rates for permanency and reunification. Being a part of a child's life has taught me resilience, strength, and grace in ways that I had not seen or experienced it before. 

4. What has been the most challenging part of being a CASA?

The most challenging part of being a CASA is not having full control of the process. We partner with OC-OK, ad litems, foster families, and biological families in advocating for what is best for the child. Just like in any part of life, there can be moments of miscommunication and unforeseen circumstances. Additionally, during this time it is so hard to be interacting solely over Zoom and phone calls. 

5. What has been the most rewarding part of being a CASA?

The most rewarding part of being a CASA is seeing the children on your case thrive in their placement and achieve permanency. I am currently the CASA for two different cases, one of which has been open for 2 years. I have formed meaningful relationships with the kids on my case, and they are often asking when we will be able to meet in person again. They have gone from having challenging behavior patterns to achieving great grades in school and passing onto the next grade level. They are thriving socially and are establishing roots after a season of life that was uncertain and scary. I am so incredibly proud of them! 

6. Please share a special moment with us about your advocacy work with your CASA kid or on your case?

Like I said above, the most rewarding part of being a CASA is forming relationships. When I call the kids on my case on the phone and they answer with "Hi Miss Catherine! How are you? We miss you!" it feels like the sweetest thing in the world. I had the opportunity to attend a roller-skating birthday party for one of my kids, and we had so much fun and I was able to connect with members of their family. It truly felt like I was a part of their family as well. Additionally, when I am in court and the judge asks for my opinion based on my interactions with the children, I know I am making a difference in their world. 

7. Is there anything else you would like to add about yourself or the CASA experience?

I am just another person who had a few extra hours a month and a passion to help kids in foster care. There is nothing that is spectacular about me, but I have experienced so much joy from just saying "yes" and serving an important role in these kids' lives. CASA provided all of the tools, education, and support that I have needed to be successful. Any time that I am running into a wall, or just need someone's advice, I reach out to my amazing CASA specialist, Emily, and she provides the support and expertise to help me.   

8. How have you been able to connect with your CASA kids during this time of quarantine? How are you advocating for them during this time? How has it impacted the children on your case?

I have been able to connect with my CASA kids over Zoom, phone calls, and through the mail during quarantine. I have sent cards and a few activities, have chatted on the phone, and worked on family finder activities over Zoom. I have advocated for the kids on my cases by talking to OC-OK case workers, foster parents, attorney ad litems, and potential placement options for my kids. It has looked like a lot of phone calls, emails, and Zoom meetings. Quarantine has affected my kids like any other kid out there! It is hard to be at home all the time and they miss their friends! They have been very resilient, however, despite these circumstances. 

CAS Emily Beale said, “The case she is currently on is a severe abuse case. She took it on without question and really hit the ground running once she was assigned. The child has already had three different placements and has only been in care since the end of March 2020. Catherine has stayed with the child through each placement and makes sure to let her know she is still here for her. Catherine is kind, determined, empathetic, and hard working. She builds great rapport with other professionals on the case, and they value her input and ideas for the child and her case. I love working and collaborating with her!”

Meet Board Member Nichole Masters-Henry

Why CASA?
Since I was a teenager I’ve always had a deep burden on my heart for abused and neglected children. I saw the hurt and long lasting impact trauma could have on their lives if there wasn’t someone to be there countering all the negative, telling them they are important, loved, strong, and worth it.  CASA does exactly that. The children we serve have been traumatized but the care, compassion, and advocacy they receive from their CASA Advocate counters all of that negative.  Advocates shine a bright light of love into a world that seems dark and lonely. I chose CASA because CASA chooses the children.

What first caused you to get involved with CASA?The mission.

What keeps you coming back every month in helping CASA? The children.

What would you say to a potential supporter?
We all bear the responsibility of caring for the children in our community. When a child is abused, neglected we all must respond to protect them, provide safety, and make sure they have every opportunity for a safe and healthy childhood. Your financial support make that happen. Your support ensures that CASA can provide Advocates for every abused and neglected child in our community so they never again experience that hurt and can instead experience love, support, and safety- what every child deserves. 

Why do you think it’s important for your local community to support CASA and what they do?
The children of our community is all of our responsibility to care for, encourage, protect, and prepare for their future.  They are the future of our community. 

Do you want to share some encouraging words to our volunteers?
Thank you for partnering with us to make sure the voices of our children in Tarrant County are heard. You make a difference. You make sure a child knows they are valued, loved, and not alone.

Meet Volunteer Amber Munoz

1.     What made you decide to become a CASA?

I decided to become a CASA because I have a love for children and a love to help them. I have wanted to become a CASA for quite some time when I finally emailed and asked how to sign up. I am a volunteer at heart, and I knew I wanted to be a helper for those in need. I love being a CASA and it is the most rewarding choice I have ever made.

2.     What is your professional/ volunteer background?

I work as a Director for a Child Care Center in White Settlement and have been in the business for over 18 years now. I love to volunteer and give my time to my community. I am on our Parade Planning Committee and I am also Place 3 on the White Settlement City Council. I am the Treasurer for two local Police Support Groups.  

3.     What advice would you give to someone who is thinking about becoming a CASA?

Just go for it. This journey has been so amazing and eye opening for me. If you have the time and ability join this wonderful group. There are so many children in need of our help. You will not regret it.

4.     What has been the most challenging part of being a CASA?

The most challenging part has been not being able to go visit my kiddos during the COVID-19 pandemic. I love getting to visit my kids and play with them. I am a hugger and I miss being able to hug my kiddos.

5.     What has been the most rewarding part of being a CASA?

Being able to see “my” kiddos finally being happy and feeling wanted. These guys have been through a lot and are finally in a place where they feel like they are part of a real family. When I ask them if they are happy and they say YES, there is nothing better than that.  Being apart of CASA is so rewarding to me.

6.     Please share a special moment with us about your advocacy work with your CASA kid or on your case.

My Kiddos love to play games. The last actual visit I was able to make went longer than normal. I had brought the card game UNO over for the family and we all sat down and played probably 4-5 games together. They are very competitive and so we just had a great time playing cards and being silly. They even started using silly accents! We just had a great time playing together.

7.     Is there anything else you would like to add about yourself or the CASA experience?

Becoming a CASA is one of the best decisions I have made in my life. I have a 19-year-old daughter that attends college in New York so now I have more time on my hands.  I love using that extra time to give to those in need. The children we advocate for need all the love and support we can give them. I am so glad I can help bring a positive difference in the lives of these children.

8.     How have you been able to connect with your CASA kids during this time of quarantine? How are you advocating for them during this time? How has it impacted the children on your case?

During quarantine we began using Skype for our visits.  It has allowed us to have more visits as they live about an hour or so away from me.  I call as often as I can, sometimes we will talk for 30 minutes or more and sometimes we can only get a 5-minute call in. But even the shorter calls show them that I am still here for them. I always make sure to ask about them and their interests and listen to what they have to say.  The quarantine has made it difficult for us all especially with virtual classes and not being able to visit. My older kiddo’s birthday was recently so I made a quick Happy Birthday Video for him and sent him a birthday present. I want them to know that even though I cannot physically be there, I am always there for them.

CAS Chelsey Statham said, “Amber has done an amazing job jumping into a long ongoing case and quickly building rapport with the kids. After spending nearly 4 years in foster care and in multiple placements, the children will likely be adopted soon. She is consistently FaceTiming them now that they’re placed out of region and due to COVID-19 restrictions. She has provided a familiar face and sounding board in these times of uncertainty!”

Meet Board Member Mary Barkley

Why CASA?

My family has long supported CASA’s mission to help protect the most vulnerable children in our community. It does important work that no other group can do and does it with volunteers which makes it truly unique. 
 

What first caused you to get involved with CASA?

I have witnessed the help that CASA provides to children and families in need and understand directly the good that it does.  
 

What Keeps you coming back every month in helping CASA?

Every month, at minimum, I hear the reports from our Executive Director about the profound differences CASA makes in children’s lives and the lives of their parents. Whether it is helping a child work through a school issue, ensuring a child does not miss a sports game or practice, helping to find a relative who can care for a child while the parents get help, helping foster parents locate special resources, or ultimately assisting in adoption, CASAs make a difference in the lives of our children. And improving our children’s lives improves our community.

What would you say to a potential supporter?

The work that CASA does directly impacts and improves our local community. We see the fruits of CASA’s labor every month with a positive outcome or improvement for a child. If you want to support an organization which greatly impacts our local community, this is the one to support. 

Why do you think it’s important for your local community to support CASA and what they do?

Unfortunately, we live in a world where child abuse and neglect is increasing.  And as our population increases, so does child abuse. The earlier we can stop and prevent child abuse, the better outcomes there are for the children to grow up to be productive members of our community.  The work CASA does benefit the whole community. 

Do you want to share some encouraging words to our volunteers?

Thank you so much for your continued service during this pandemic. Now, more than ever, you are a special link helping our most vulnerable children get what they need.  

Do you want to share some encouraging words to our volunteers?

Thank you so much for your continued service during this pandemic. Now, more than ever, you are a special link helping our most vulnerable children get what they need. 

Meet Volunteer Katalina Hibjan

1. What made you decide to become a CASA?

I chose to become a CASA volunteer because in my heart, I feel children are the most exposed and vulnerable in our society. Therefore, we as a community, must step up and become those extra compassionate pair of hands to offer support for those children, in times when their parents have failed to give them the love, care and safety every child deserves as a birthright.

2. What is your professional/ volunteer background?

I worked as an architect for twenty years. Then, seeking my personal healing path and a more meaningful fulfilment, I became a Life Coach and more recently Yoga Instructor.

As a child of immigrants, I participated in the girl-scout movement for more the 20 years in the Hungarian community in Venezuela. That was an environment designed to learn about the home country of our parents, but also to care about the less fortunate of our community.

When I moved to the States 4 years ago, I volunteered at Grace for a while. Then I learned about CASA of Tarrant County, and from the very first moment, I was impacted by the meaningful role the volunteers assume and the story behind how this entity was created more than 36 years ago. I could not consider anything else but become one them.

3. What advice would you give to someone who is thinking about becoming a CASA?

If you want to make a difference, here you have a clear path. One thing I value about CASA volunteering is its effectiveness. Statistics favor those cases where family reunification was achieved when CASA has been involved. Human beings long to be noticed. So, from those parents’ perspective, to have the support of an outsider like a CASA volunteer for their children, gives them a frame to feel noticed.  It could be said that sometimes this acts as a trigger for the parent to start doing better and complete their programs for getting their children back. These could make the entire difference. So, what we do matters in a big way!

4. What has been the most challenging part of being a CASA?

For me, it has been to keep the discipline to stick to the plan of what a volunteer must complete monthly as a priority. There is so much more that I wish I could do for the children, but time is limited. Also, to learn in dealing with my feelings and emotions by being conscious that every little step taken is a step forward towards betterment for the children.

5. What has been the most rewarding part of being a CASA?

Every hug, every smile I receive from the kiddos without asking for it. That is so meaningful to me.

6. Please share a special moment with us about your advocacy work with your CASA kid or on your case?

I have four teenage sisters assigned to me. It is a little bit more challenging to offer them a shared activity because they already have different preferences. So, when I brought the painting material for the CASA Kids on Canvas event, one of them said, “No, that’s not for me, the artistly gifted one is my sister”. Then, I encouraged her to express and reflect her own personality in some way through the colors, the outcome ended up gorgeous! She liked it so much that she regretted having to hand over the painting. It was really empowering for her. For me, those moments when I can be part of a small personal growth of a teenager, are worth gold.

7. Is there anything else you would like to add about yourself or the CASA experience?

Another thing I like about CASA is the vast amount of resources that make available to continue our educational process, not to mention the support of our supervisors and the rest of the team.

Learning the details of the case in which one will be in charge can be a difficult time but realizing the resilience of these children is a lesson of the hope life constantly offers us in return.

8. How have you been able to connect with your CASA kids during this time of quarantine? How are you advocating for them during this time? How has it impacted the children on your case?

During these times of forced quarantine, my intention has been to keep the connection with them through different approaches. Besides calls, texts and pictures we are exchanging, I colored for them a mandala with some words on staying safe and sent them a set for them to color, in the sake of keeping up the good vibes! I also offered them some online yoga sessions and one of the girls, and also foster mom, grabbed the opportunity to participate, which is great because a more relaxed foster mom can do a better job, right? I always like to consider the bigger picture.

A Heartfelt Message From Our CEO

Don Binnicker, CASA of Tarrant County CEO

I’ve been in the child welfare field for over 20 years. I’ve seen tragic outcomes and families stretched to their breaking points. Never before have I been so concerned about the severity and frequency of child abuse removals, particularly due to physical abuse. The current health pandemic has unfortunately thrust almost all individuals and families into a whirlwind of emotion, stress, uncertainty and, in some cases, despair. This is creating an escalating crisis of child abuse and neglect.

As we have seen in the local media, three children in our community have lost their lives in the last few weeks as a result of suspected physical abuse and neglect, including a case at Cook Children’s Hospital on Easter Sunday. During the earliest days of the stay-at-home order, the hospital also saw a significant surge in other cases of suspected child abuse, including a half dozen ER visits in the space of only one week.

Children and caregivers are being simultaneously tested by the responsibility to be both parent, caregiver, educator, provider, nurturer and support to those in their charge. For families with multiple children and age levels, this has been exponentially difficult to maneuver, often resulting in conflicting demands for attention and immediate response to daily activities and obstacles. For those working caregivers, being unable to provide the normal financial support has further strained relationships and emotional response to the burdens of this crisis.

Children who are not in school or daycare settings have lost the watchful eye of teachers and child care providers—the safety net of responsive, attention providing and protective caregivers to tend to their needs. The ultimate concern for the safety of children has been impacted by the lack of visual contacts, face-to-face interactions and multiple sources of support and nurturance they had previously been accustomed to. When parents or caregivers are stressed to the max, isolated from their own sources of strength, emotional and financial support, the dangers to children are intensified.

What can we do for these children to keep them safe? Where does our responsibility begin and what can be done to prevent more child fatalities?

Our responsibility begins at home, with our own families. We need to recognize our own strengths and limitations. If we are stressed, emotionally drained or exhausted, how do we protect ourselves in order to protect the most vulnerable in our homes? We need to utilize resources available to us, including counseling resources, financial resources, medical and any other resources available to us. 

For our family members, we can reach out and connect, by phone, Facetime, Skype and many other means to interact with the parents, children and others who may have contact with them. Abuse frequently happens in isolation, and children who have regular contact with grandparents, aunts, uncles and other extended family members are less vulnerable than those who don’t. Connect and find out how everyone is doing, speak to them, see them. Don’t be afraid to ask questions or ask to talk to a child in person if you’re noticing anything alarming or out of the ordinary.

For children in foster care, social isolation is another upheaval in their lives. When children have already been removed from their homes, due to allegations of abuse and neglect by their own parents or caregivers, this forces the children to be moved to homes where they have no connections and have lost all normalcy, and places them in a position of daily uncertainty for their future. No one knows the trauma they have endured and will endure until they are safe.

For those in our community, be alert, pay attention and observe both physical and emotional signs that might indicate concerns of domestic violence, abuse or neglect. Pay attention to physical indicators, such as unusual bruising, multiple injuries on several planes of the body, facial, mouth or eye injuries, scars or bleeding. Don’t feel the need to investigate yourself. Call the police and/or the child abuse hotline, at 1-800-252-5400, and let them investigate. If you don’t know their names, obtain addresses, car license numbers, locations, etc.  Watch for interactions between children and caregivers that might indicate fear, violence or aggression.  You, as the reporter, are protected by law and your name can be kept confidential.

Don’t be afraid to call. You might be the person that saves a child’s life or prevents further injury.

Get involved. If you want to be a part of advocating for children in the foster care system, explore the role of CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates). Be the person that can have an impact on children in care, by being the eyes and ears of the court. Sign up for an information session to learn more.  Don’t be afraid to Speak Up, Speak Out and Speak For our children.

Don Binnicker, CEO
CASA of Tarrant County

Meet Dwayne Smith, Board President

Why CASA?

I joined CASA because I know that one person can make a lifelong difference to a child. Many of the kids in the foster care system don’t have someone to tell them that they have a voice, that they’re capable of achieving a better life than the one they currently have, or simply that they matter. CASA volunteers speak up for these children when no one else can or will.

What first caused you to get involved with CASA?

Our law firm specializes in the practice of family law in Tarrant County, and I’ve seen through my practice far too many children get lost in the foster-care system. As a lawyer, my role as an advocate for my client is always clear. Sometimes that leads to the “best” outcome for the child, and sometimes it doesn’t. I appreciate that CASA is able to provide children with an unbiased volunteer who only has that child’s interests in mind. A child’s CASA volunteer is often the only person whose sole task it is to speak up for what truly is in the child’s best interest.

What keeps you coming back every month in helping CASA?

Aside from getting to work with our wonderful staff and team of advocates, I keep coming back to CASA every month because it’s the right thing to do. My family is blessed in so many ways, and I believe it’s my duty to help children who don’t currently have everything that they need to enjoy their childhood and to prepare for life as an adult.

What would you say to a potential supporter?

There’s no such thing as helping too little. Every minute of work, every dollar, and every connection in our community helps improve children’s lives.

Why do you think it’s important for your local community to support CASA and why they do?

Children are our future. The children that CASA serves will be our future community leaders, business owners, and employees, and they are and always will be our neighbors.

Do you want to share some encouraging words to our volunteers?

This is a trying time for our community, and you all are on the front lines of helping our kids through it. Thank you for your time and dedication to keeping safe the most vulnerable among us.

Meet Volunteer Shannon Baumgardner

1. What made you decide to become a CASA?

I had wanted to be an advocate for about 15 years, but didn’t feel I had the time. How wrong I was. I wish I had become involved when I first was aware of CASA. I think it is so important to support the children in foster care who have experienced abuse. The trauma they had endured can have an effect of the rest of their lives, but with consistent, positive, caring adults this trauma can be mitigated and their future can be very bright.

2. What is your professional/ volunteer background?

I worked in marketing for the majority of my career. I have always volunteered for my community in different aspects, but through the years it evolved into a focus on supporting children to help ensure they have a healthy and secure future. I also do volunteer work that supports Cook Children’s Medical Center and have been involved with UNICEF. I am on the Frog Club Advisory Board at TCU and a member of the Bobby Bragan Youth Foundation board. 

3. What advice would you give to someone who is thinking about becoming a CASA?

Don’t wait! It is important work and incredibly fulfilling. The need is great, much greater than there are volunteer advocates. Help give the children of our community caring adult support during the most crucial time of their lives.

4. What has been the most challenging part of being a CASA?

Keeping my emotions in check when hearing about the details of a case. It helps to remind myself that with a CASA advocate what has happened to these children will now not happen again.

5. What has been the most rewarding part of being a CASA?

Seeing the smiles on the faces of “my” kids when I visit them! And, the moment I can tell that they have learned to trust me.

6. Please share a special moment with us about your advocacy work with your CASA kid or on your case?

I am a CASA for a 13 year old boy. Sadly, he has been in foster care for almost 5 years. It can be very difficult to find a permanent, adoptive home for a child this age with a traumatic history. But, he is now in a loving adoptive home with the kindest parents who are patient and loving. And, he now has several brothers that have openly welcomed him into their family. This family was found after I kept questioning what else can be done for him and found a wonderful group that encourages adoption of older children. It proved to be the perfect piece we were missing!

7. Is there anything else you would like to add about yourself or the CASA experience?

It is the best thing I have ever done. I am a regular person. I am not special or gifted, but I know I have made a positive difference in the lives of the children that I have advocated for. They know that they are special and deserving and worthy – and they always will.

8. How have you been able to connect with your CASA kids during this time of quarantine? How are you advocating for them during this time? How has it impacted the children on your case?

It has been different, for sure. But, I call the foster parents a bit more often. I talk with the foster parents and talk with “my” kid also. I have been able to reassure the foster parents of their hard work during this time and have encouraged “my” kids to find the positive things in their lives even during this strange time. I have sent them cards in the mail, too. The older kids have not wanted to facetime and the youngest is only 8 months old, so I have checked in with his foster mom. I know they are all doing perfectly fine, even though they don’t much like doing school at home and not being able to leave the house.

CAS Mayra Guzman said,  "Shannon has been as CASA Advocate for five years. I have worked with Shannon for about two years. Shannon became a CASA Family Recovery Court Advocate in 2018. Shannon voluntarily organizes bi-weekly educational sessions for the Family Recovery Court clients. Shannon is a kindhearted angel that is willing to go the extra mile for the parents and children on her cases. She advocates for her children to have sibling visits monthly and communicates with each foster family that reside in different locations to ensure the children are continuing to have contact with each other. Shannon is resourceful with obtaining outside resources to assist our children and parents.”

Meet Volunteer Kelly Rippetoe

1.     What made you decide to become a CASA?
My daughter worked as a Case Manager at a local Child Placing Agency. She told me about CASA and the role that CASA volunteers play in CPS cases.  She also old me that many children were not being assigned CASA volunteers due to their not being enough.  She encouraged me to consider being a volunteer and thought that it would be a way for me to be a part of a child’s life.

2.     What is your professional/ volunteer background?
I work as an accountant and have served in that professional role for almost 33 years. When my children were in elementary school I volunteered in the school as a Helping Hand.  I have also volunteered in our local church throughout the years.

3.     What advice would you give to someone who is thinking about becoming a CASA?
If you are thinking about becoming a CASA volunteer, I would highly recommend that you step up and become a part of this incredible organization. You don’t have to have any background experience in the child welfare system in order to become a voice for a child. The organization does an excellent job at training volunteers and having staff to support you through your entire journey.

4. What has been the most challenging part of being a CASA?
The most challenging part of being a CASA volunteer is hearing the stories of abuse and neglect that children have been through.  

5. What has been the most rewarding part of being a CASA?
The most rewarding feeling is knowing that you have helped reunite a child or to help them find permanency in a forever home.

6. Please share a special moment with us about your advocacy work with your CASA kid or on your case?
A special moment that stands out to me is when I went to visit my little girl at daycare. I had met her previously but was not certain that she would remember who I was. However, as soon as I walked through the door and she saw me, her face lit up and she ran over towards me with her arms extended. It was a heartwarming moment that I will always cherish.

If you are ever looking for a place to volunteer, this is an incredible organization that is fulfilling, meaningful and worthwhile.

“CAS Stephen Shaw said, “Kelly Rippetoe has a case with two children that will be adopted soon. She is a great advocate that is responsible, dependable, compassionate, and very devoted to her case. Kelly was also instrumental in contacting CASA in the state of Arkansas to make visits to the adoptive family’s home to make sure that the home was safe and appropriate for the kids. She also attended service plan meetings, attended all court hearings, and prepared court reports.  CASA of Tarrant County is very fortunate to have Kelly as an Advocate.”

Meet Volunteer Debbie Michell

1.     What made you decide to become a CASA?

As a former teacher, and then stay-at-home mom whose kids had left the nest, I found myself with a lot of time on my hands, and I was missing having children in my day-to-day life!

2.     What is your professional/ volunteer background?

I was a high school English teacher and then stayed home with my two children. During that time, I volunteered in many different areas. My friend and I started a national letter writing campaign called Operation Enduring Response which connected US school children with soldiers fighting in the war after 9/11. I also volunteered for the American Red Cross helping refugees from Hurricane Katrina when they arrived in Dallas. I have fostered dogs for Puppy Rescue Mission who save dogs that soldiers find while serving overseas and bring them to the US so they can live with the soldiers who saved them. I have also volunteered for Arlington Life Shelter, Arlington Animal Services, Don’t Forget To Feed Me, Catholic Charities, and I also tutor second graders in math every Wednesday. 

3.     What advice would you give to someone who is thinking about becoming a CASA?

I would advise anyone who thinks about becoming a CASA to absolutely do it! It will change your life in the most positive and meaningful way!

4. What has been the most challenging part of being a CASA?

Since I am working on two cases at once, the most challenging part has been finding time to visit all their homes and schools, but the rewards far outweigh the challenges.

5. What has been the most rewarding part of being a CASA?

I don’t think I can name just one rewarding part. First is that I have met so many amazing people like my supervisor, Emily, and other CASA workers, CPS caseworkers and foster parents who all devote their lives to helping these children. Second, I have been so inspired by the families that I have worked with, especially the children. Their strength and resilience are amazing!

6. Please share a special moment with us about your advocacy work with your CASA kid or on your case?

I sent a note during the summer to one of my boys. He was five at the time, and I knew he couldn’t read, so I wrote it in print. The next time I went to visit him at his home, he showed me that he had taped my note to his wall in his room. He then said, “Watch this,” and he read the whole note back to me! I loved seeing the pride on his face!

Just yesterday I was speaking with a caregiver on a case I have had for three years, and he thanked me for being “the only constant for his kids” throughout this process!

CAS Emily Beale, says, “Debbie currently has two cases. One of those cases, she has been assigned since day one, and it has been open for three years. Debbie is very involved in both of her cases. She has built strong and trusting relationships with caregivers within the case, and most importantly, the children. Debbie goes above and beyond to ensure the children are in a safe and loving environment, and works hard to find the children stability and permanency. Debbie truly puts her heart into her cases. Debbie is not afraid to speak up, have those hard conversations, and advocate for the children’s best interest.”

Meet Jeremy Bravo, Board Assistant Secretary

Jeremy Bravo, Realtor, Briggs Freeman Sotheby’s International Realty
Board Assistant Secretary

Why are you involved in CASA?

I am involved with CASA because I firmly believe that your past does not dictate your future. My goal is to help as many children as possible believe the same thing.

What first caused you to get involved with CASA?

It was a story on the news about a little girl that was killed by her mothers boyfriend. As I read through the comments, a commenter typed in “I’m familiar with that case. If the child had a CASA she would probably still be alive.” That’s all I needed to hear.

What would you say to a potential supporter?

Knowing that Tarrant County has the fourth highest confirmed child abuse cases in the state is what keeps me coming back to help. I like to remind potential supporters that the cost of action is far more affordable that the cost of inaction. This organization will bring tremendous joy to your life, knowing that you made an impact on a child’s life.

Why do you think it's important for the local community of Southlake (where you are a Realtor) to support CASA and what can they do?

Southlake is a wonderful community full of people from humble beginnings. I would love to see more people show these children what is possible and help them believe that they can control their future.

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As featured in Our Neighborhood Life Magazine (Timarron, Southlake Publication)

Meet Volunteer Kathy Giddings

1. What made you decide to become a CASA?

Many years ago I was part of an organization in Ohio that raised money for CASA. As a result, I gained respect and passion for the cause. I am thrilled to be at a point in my life where I have the time, life experiences, and mindset to advocate for foster children.

2. What is your professional/ volunteer background?

I find volunteering rewarding. In addition to CASA, I recently began volunteering for NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness). At NAMI, I give presentations to students and parents on reducing stigma through education on mental health conditions. I spent years volunteering in my children’s various activities. In my past life, I worked for many years in corporate accounting/finance.

3. What advice would you give to someone who is thinking about becoming a CASA?

CASA’s work is incredibly rewarding and quite challenging. While training is helpful, much is learned on the job and can be unpredictable. I have worked on three cases, all very different. It is a tough job and requires commitment. Expect to feel varying emotions regularly from delight to frustration to occasional anger. Patience, of which I do not always exhibit, is required as the system is not always efficient. The delight and payback are generally in the time spent with the children. Seeing a child’s eyes light up when you visit and spend time with them is extremely rewarding. It is also fun to get to know the amazing CASA staff and many amazing foster parents. 

4. What has been the most challenging part of being a CASA?

The challenges are never ending and require an open mind, a bit of assertiveness, lots of patience, reservation of judgment, and faith that the outcome will result in the best interest of the children. This is much easier said than done. 

5. What has been the most rewarding part of being a CASA?

The rewards are many and include my own personal growth and development.  The biggest reward is the smile on your CASA child’s face and the big hugs during visits. Of course, it was a special reward to see my 4-year old child adopted by his amazing foster family in December. 

6. Please share a special moment with us about your advocacy work with your CASA kid or on your case?

In my current case, my 10-year old CASA child was recently placed into her third home in six months by no fault of her own. She is a kind and sweet girl. Her latest transfer was not planned and hastily executed. I was with her throughout much of this two-day process, which included tears, fears, acceptance, and much stoicism on her part. I hope that my presence at this difficult time provided her some sense of security and a constant in her life. 

CAS Jennie Parker said, “Kathy has been a tremendous advocate on three cases now. Her first case came with several challenges, including the death of a parent on the case and subsequent issues, but Kathy persevered for the children, nonetheless. Kathy is always timely with her visits and goes above and beyond making several contacts with the families and children each month. Kathy's clear passion for her role at CASA is inspiring and I'm so proud to work with her as her specialist. Kathy teams with everyone on her cases, from caseworkers to the parents, if possible, and she clearly completes each task with the best interest of the children in mind. She always wants better, not only for the children, but for their caretakers. Kathy reaches out to family, when appropriate, finds resources for the children and their caretakers and provides support for everyone along the way. Kathy keeps clear boundaries on her cases but is immersed in her role of advocate at the same time. I could go on and on about all that Kathy brings to her cases, her children, and to me as I get to work with her, but mostly it's important to see how Kathy exemplifies everything CASA hopes to have in an advocate!”

Meet Elicka Oberdick, Board Treasurer

Elicka Oberdick, Senior Vice President, Wealth Advisor | Wells Fargo Private Bank

Board Treasurer

Why are you involved in CASA? 

I strongly believe that CASA is an AMAZING organization. As a mother, I value the work they do to protect children from falling through the cracks of the foster care system. I am passionate about their mission and want to do whatever I can to support their efforts to advocate for abused and neglected children who can’t speak for themselves.

What first caused you to get involved with CASA? 

In 2012 I volunteered to mentor underage (12-17 years old) girls who were victims of trafficking through an organization called Streetlight USA based out of Arizona. In mentoring these girls and looking in their eyes, I saw how broken they were. How scared they were. How much anger they had in their hearts for what had been done to them. They were children that just wanted to have a normal life, play and grow up in a safe home. I had to do something to prevent this from happening to another child and wondered why more of these girls were not getting rescued. The answer was, no one knew to look for them. They were typically part of  the foster care system and they fell through the cracks. I realized anyone of us could have been born into their circumstances, but just because I was blessed to not have been, doesn’t mean it is not my problem. I realized that there are unintended holes in the foster care system that exist and started to try to find out what I could do to help. That’s how I found CASA, which is an organization set up to do just that. 

What keeps you coming back every month in helping CASA? 

I know that if we don’t take care of these kids, someone may come in promising to take care of them with the wrong intentions. This can lead to things like trafficking, drugs, jail, abuse, etc. These kids deserve more than being products of the system. The case workers for these kids are angels, but they have high caseloads. CASA allows a trained volunteer to help one child (or sibling group), and act as one constant person they see caring about them and overseeing their journey.

What would you say to a potential supporter? 

Once you get to know these abused and neglected children and know that there is something you can do to help protect them and in some instances, save their lives, this is a cause no one can resist joining. I’m a banker and when I give to an organization, I want to know how the dollars are being used. CASA’s model is this; the more money they receive, the more volunteers they can support and manage, the more children will be helped. Here are the numbers; currently, 500 children are waiting for an advocate. 1 paid CASA staff member can manage 25 volunteers, which can serve about 55 children. You can give these kids the gift and blessing of having a consistent adult in their lives that is looking out for them after they’ve dealt with a lot of uncertainty and fear. What’s not to love and feel compelled about doing that for a child in need.

Why do you think it's important for the local community of Southlake (where you reside) to support CASA and what can they do?

Tarrant County CASA needs our support, we need, as a community to stand behind their important and noble mission. The city of Dallas has raised close to 10 times the amount of money Tarrant County has for our kids and Dallas has gotten to the point where EVERY child in their district is being served! We, in Tarrant County, should be able to do the same, to make sure that every child in foster care has someone helping them, and we can only accomplish this if our entire community stands behind CASA and is committed to protecting these children.

We would love for many of you to also consider volunteering! I think it would be helpful to note for anyone thinking about volunteering, CASA is not a Boys and Girls club style mentorship program. The volunteer’s role is to check on the child with doctors, teachers, foster parents. You will have an incredible opportunity to talk to the child you are assigned to and be a major influencer in his/her life, while helping him/her  understand what’s going on in their life and advocate for them in court when the judge is deciding what they need. It’s incredibly rewarding and you can directly see the impact your time has had in bettering the life of the child/siblings you serve.

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As featured in Our Neighborhood Life Magazine (Timarron, Southlake Publication)

Meet Volunteers Luke and Kati Brandon

1. What made you decide to become a CASA?

We want to be foster parents. We also desired to find a way to serve in our community that makes a true difference in someone else's life, even when we knew it would be challenging and that it would demand sacrifice. We also don't want to perpetuate a culture that says it cares and wants to make a difference, but never does. We believed it was time to take action.

2. What is your professional/ volunteer background?

Luke's profession is a graphic designer and Kati works in legal immigration services for a local non-profit. We both have experience volunteering in the children's care for our church, and have lots of nieces and nephews that love to play games with us!

3. What advice would you give to someone who is thinking about becoming a CASA?

It's definitely challenging, but it opens your eyes to a world beyond your own. It's rewarding to see before your eyes changes unfold, whether in a child or biological parent, and know that you played a very small part in that happening. It's extremely humbling to think that after a case closes, a child will move on and hopefully develop into a healthy adult, and may not remember you, but that you were still a part of their story. People should know that they won't always know what to do or may make mistakes, but the most important thing is consistency and just showing up for the child.

4. What has been the most challenging part of being a CASA?

Getting out of your comfort zone by learning a whole new world of child welfare. Going to a visit and seeing the kids have a really rough time, hurting and having a hard day, and knowing that even when we try to do everything perfectly, it's all out of our control.

5. What has been the most rewarding part of being a CASA?

Seeing the kids open up and watching a kid get comfortable enough in a placement where they feel like they can act like kids - they aren't worried about parenting other kids. Hearing about a child who has (finally!) opened up to their therapist! Seeing a bio parent connect with their child in a healthy and positive way. Being a part of the bigger picture of child advocacy.

6. Please share a special moment with us about your advocacy work with your CASA kid or on your case?

When a new CPS caseworker or observer arrive, it's a sweet and satisfying moment to be able to be the person who knows your child, what triggers them, what brings them joy, how they decompress and find relief, and being able to share that information with the new service worker.

A specific moment - when we took canvases to the kids to paint them for the CASA art auction event, it was one of the best visits to see them outside, painting, and laughing, all having a good time. It's always beautiful to see them free.

There was a moment when a child acted out, spit at me, and hit me which was really difficult during his visit. But thanks to my training, I was able to respond in a compassionate way, de-escalating the situation in a calm but firm manner. After the visit, the child was able to see and realize that I would not treat him like the other adults in his life, and he started to warm up to me and trust me as a safe person.

7. Is there anything else you would like to add about yourself or the CASA experience?

CASA is something that even if someone doesn't believe child welfare service is not for them, everyone should be a CASA advocate for at least one case. It's a great opportunity to learn how to treat their own children, look for signs of abuse, and even acquire tips on how to healthily engage with unhealthy behavior. People need to see firsthand that these kids, many of whom statistics say will grow up to be a burden on society, deserve to be just kids. People need to see that these kids and even their parents are not choosing to be from difficult or hard places, but that people are so much more complex than that.

8. Why did you decide to work a case together and how has it helped make it successful?

We decided to work together to prepare us one day to become foster parents. Working on a case together has helped when one of us can't make a visit due to work, so the other one can do it. It's also helpful with processing after a visit. We are able to talk to each other what we saw and share the hard moments. Since we have the same case, we know the full details which allows us to look for different things at visits and see twice as much.

CAS, Kennedy Morrison said, Kaitlyn and Luke are amazing advocates. They work together to make sure that the needs of their CASA kids are being met, and never miss a visit or court hearing. They build off of each other's strengths and collaborate wonderfully to make sure that the best interests of their CASA kids are always front and center. They build strong relationships with the other parties on their case, and always get their notes in on time. Their first case has been complicated, with many unexpected twists and turns. They have always kept the best interest and well-being of the kids at the forefront, and ensure that nothing slips through the cracks. They are engaged and enthusiastic about advocacy, and exemplify exactly what CASA is about!

Meet Volunteer Kathie Calder

1. What made you decide to become a CASA? 

I was very proud of my adult children for their involvement in local and national politics. I felt that I should be more involved too. But then I heard an ad on TV for becoming a CASA and decided that it would suit me better as a way to make a contribution.

2. What is your professional/ volunteer background?

I worked as a biomedical researcher at UCLA for many years before moving to Texas for my husband’s work. I have been delivering Meals on Wheels for 16 years.

3. What advice would you give to someone who is thinking about becoming a CASA?

If someone is thinking about being a CASA, stop thinking about it and go. And find some good audio books or podcasts to listen to in the car. Sometimes there is a lot of driving.

4. What has been the most challenging part of being a CASA?

One of the most challenging parts of my CASA experience was the failed adoption of one of my teenaged girls. It was completely unexpected and caused the child an unimaginable amount of trauma, on top of all the trauma she had already experienced in her short life. But by far the most challenging part was when this girl left care.

5. What has been the most rewarding part of being a CASA?

I have my fingers crossed that the most rewarding part of being a CASA will happen early next year, when one of my kids will be officially adopted.

6. Please share a special moment with us about your advocacy work with your CASA kid or on your

case?

The best moments of my CASA work came with the teen I mentioned whose adoption failed. There were a lot of ups and downs. At times, she was very angry and asked the caseworker, referring to me,  “What is SHE doing here?” But when mine was the only familiar face at the psychiatric hospitals she was admitted to, she told me she was so grateful that I was there.

From CAS, Tracy Williams, "Kathleen is the personification of CASA. She will go above and beyond to make sure the children she works with are supported at all times. If a child is having a hard time in a home during a nationally recognized holiday, Kathleen will see that child that day to provide them the comfort they need. She exudes compassion that is immeasurable and is always a joy to work with. Kathleen deserves this honor because of her passion for helping children. No matter how many times a child tells her "no" in their anger, that child soon smiles because they know that Kathleen will always be there for them no matter what with a smile."

Meet Volunteer Caitlin Latta

1. What made you decide to become a CASA? 

I love to help people. And when I heard about CASA and the wonderful work they do, I felt that this was something I was meant to do.

2. What is your professional/ volunteer background?

I have had many different jobs since I was 17. Each one taught me something different, but they all taught me how to work with people. I am now a 911 dispatcher and I love what I do! I get to help people every day.

3. What advice would you give to someone who is thinking about becoming a CASA? 

You have to be able to stay committed. These kids count on you to be there while they are going through a very difficult time in their lives. As a CASA, you will be one of the most consistent people in the lives of the kids you help.

4. What has been the most challenging part of being a CASA?

Learning about all the things these children have gone through is heartbreaking. A child should never have to endure these situations but unfortunately it happens.

5. What has been the most rewarding part of being a CASA? 

Being able to witness the improvements in my CASA kid’s life over the last year has been very rewarding. I have seen them gain confidence and develop strong relationships with the people in their lives. I have seen the parents improve their situation and work their services. It has been great being able to help reunite a family.

6. Please share a special moment with us about your advocacy work with your CASA kid or on your case?

Really this entire year has been special. When I first met my CASA kid, they were shy and it took time to build trust and to show them they could rely on me to be there for them. With each visit they became more and more comfortable around me. Seeing improvement in my CASA kid’s confidence every time I saw them was amazing and it allowed me to help them even more.

7. Is there anything else you would like to add about yourself or the CASA experience?

My work as a CASA Volunteer has been one of the most challenging and rewarding experiences of my life. If you have the heart for this kind of work then go for it! There is such a need for CASA volunteers and these kids need people who will be there for them.

CAS Megan Edge says, “Caitlin is an awesome advocate! She is so genuine, and has made herself an integral part of her case. Caitlin has good relationships with all the parties on her case, including the parents and their attorneys. As her case progressed, Caitlin never missed a month of visits and always observed at least one parent child visit every month for the past nine months. Through her interactions and observations, Caitlin made tough decisions, smart/balanced recommendations, and helped advocate strongly for her CASA kid. She is awesome to work with! I know that without Caitlin, and her perseverance, the case could have turned out differently.”