Meet the Family Finder Team of Advocates!

This month, in honor of National Foster Care Month, we are highlighting our Family Finder Team of CASA volunteers!

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GAIL SCOTT

What made you decide to join the CASA Family Finders team? As a retired paralegal, I have a background in research and felt I could bring some special skills to the table. I also wanted to be a part of finding connections for children in need.
What has been the most rewarding part of being a family finder? For me, the most rewarding part of being a family finder is locating relatives and/or others that have a real interest and are willing to be a part of a child's life.
Please share a special moment with us about your family finding work. Through my family finding work, I was able to reconnect with a former foster mom and respite caregiver who was excited to learn that a special little girl is in need of permanency, to which she responded, "Oh I hope it's me!"
Why do you think finding family is important for foster children? Family finding is important for foster children because it is critical for children to have a sense of family and culture.

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CRYSTAL BURNS

What made you decide to join the CASA Family Finders team? I am extremely interested in being a social worker and furthering my education within. I love learning all sides of the operation and how I can contribute. Everyone deserves to be set up for success and hardships are way more common than not. We could all use support.
What has been the most rewarding part of being a family finder? Well, I just started but I presume that it will be the ability to connect dots and family connections so the kiddos can stay within their family and have familiarity.
Please share a special moment with us about your family finding work. I haven't had one just yet, but I feel hope while doing the work. Hope that these kiddos will be okay in the end.
Why do you think finding family is important for foster children? Social Workers are stacked with cases. They need as much support as they can get. If someone can help them do some ground work and truly have the children's best interest at heart and spot things that the social worker could have overseen due to their workload - I am more than willing to do that. It takes a village. We as humans and social workers do not want to treat any case as a case number. They are children in need of support. Due to the demand it is hard to reflect that at times. I find it incredibly important for everyone involved and invested.

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LORA WEAVER

What made you decide to join the CASA Family Finders team? When Chuck Gilliatt spoke in my CASA training and told us about Family Finder I knew it was something I wanted to be a part of. I can't imagine not having any relatives or friends willing to take me, so if there was anything I could do to help find relatives or family friends willing to take children and give them a loving home I was happy to jump on board.
What has been the most rewarding part of being a family finder? Because I've just been given my first case it's still too early to tell, but I'm sure the reward will be being able to find someone to take the children on my case.
Why do you think finding family is important for foster children? I think Family Finding is important because it's another resource for being able to help children who otherwise would remain in the foster care system. Family Finding allows us the opportunity to find relatives or known associates who are willing and able to provide a loving home. Finding permanent caretakers also lets the child know they are loved and there is someone who cares for them and wants the best for them.

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JAMES GIBSON

What made you decide to join the CASA Family Finders team? I decided to join the CASA Family Finders team because there is such a need to find relatives who would take the kids instead of long term foster care.
What has been the most rewarding part of being a family finder? The most rewarding part of being a member of this team is finding family that would take the child and give them family support and love.
Please share a special moment with us about your family finding work. A special moment was when I was able to find a whole family of relatives that could be possible permanent future placements even though the parents said they had no other relatives.
Why do you think finding family is important for foster children? I feel very strongly that every child needs a family that they can be identified with. We never want any child to feel that no one wants them or loves them.

CASA's Trauma-Informed Care Approach

May is National Foster Care month, and here at CASA of Tarrant County, we wanted to share with you one of the most helpful tools we have in working with children, families, and service providers in the foster care field: a trauma-informed care approach.

We’ve known for decades that trauma has a toxic impact on a child’s developing brain and body, often called complex developmental trauma. The toxic impact of trauma can ultimately show up in a child’s beliefs about their ability to trust others, their self-esteem, their sense of how effective and powerful their voice is, their neurochemicals, and their behaviors. The initial trauma and the lingering impacts on their brains and bodies can be chronically painful for children and teenagers, and make it difficult for supportive adults to carefully and sustainably meet their needs. Ultimately to recover from trauma, children need to have their needs met warmly and consistently by safe and attuned caregivers.

Trust-Based Relational Intervention® (TBRI®) is one type of attachment-based, trauma-informed care model designed to help caregivers and other service providers do just that – to meet the complex needs of children in foster care. TBRI® is an evidence-informed intervention that equips caregivers, service providers, and CASA volunteers to help children heal from their developmental traumas[1]. TBRI® is based on years of attachment, sensory processing, and neuroscience research, but the foundation of TBRI® is helping foster children heal through warm and consistent relationships. Through the support of our donors and volunteers, CASA staff and advocates use TBRI® to understand how a child’s mental health or behaviors could stem from their trauma, and they help educate other adults in the child’s life to ensure all adults caring for the child are on the same page and have a research-based understanding of the child’s mental and behavioral health. By using TBRI®, CASA of Tarrant County creates long-term solutions for children in foster care, preventing the harm unresolved trauma inflicts on their mental and behavioral health.

This month, we are grateful for the research and resources available on trauma and trauma-informed care, and we are thankful for the work our volunteers do to help provide the stability, consistency, and warmth children need to thrive!

If you’d like to learn more, here are some great resources on trauma-informed care:

• Nadine Burke Harris’s TED Talk: How childhood trauma affects health across a lifetime

• The Connected Child by Karyn Purvis, David Cross, & Wendy Sunshine

• Parenting from the Inside Out by Dan Siegel & Mary Hartzell

• The Body Keeps the Score by Bessel van der Kolk

• The Karyn Purvis Institute of Child Development at TCU

• The National Child Traumatic Stress Network

Director of Grants & Contracts, Catelyn Devlin, was recently featured on the podcast About Mansfield where she talks about the impact of trauma during April’s Child Abuse Prevention Month. The segment on trauma starts at approximately 16:38.

[1]Purvis, K., Cross, D., Dansereau, D., & Parris, S. (2013). Trust-based relational intervention (TBRI): A systemic approach to complex developmental trauma. Child & Youth Services, 34(4), 360-386. DOI: 10.1080/0145935X.2013.859906

Meet Board Member Taylor Bennett

Meet Board Member Taylor Bennett, who joined the Board in 2017!

Taylor says, “I was introduced to CASA through some friends, and after attending a few events, I realized the impact they make and what a big difference they make in children’s lives… One person can really change the trajectory of a child’s life in such a positive way.”

When asked why she began her involvement with CASA of Tarrant County she said, “Tarrant County has the third highest rate of child abuse cases in the state. Knowing that is going on in our backyard really made me want to get involved, and try to do everything I can for these children. Our society is called to protect the children, the innocent, and the defenseless who have no one else to stand up for them. A lot of times the CASA is the only constant person in the child’s life.”

National Volunteer Week: Tiffany Sumeersarnauth

We are excited to highlight CASA volunteer Tiffany Sumeersarnauth in celebration of National Volunteer Week!

What made you decide to become a CASA? I’d been working in the medical field for over twenty-five years, helping people has always been my passion.  After moving to Texas, just prior to the Covid pandemic, I looked for a way to get involved in the community, wanting to volunteer in some capacity with children.  I heard about the CASA program, looked into it and found it to be a perfect fit.

What is the most rewarding part of being a CASA? The most rewarding of being a CASA is connecting with the children.  In my case, there are five children who have gone through so much in their young lives. It means a lot to be able to be one, of two (advocates), consistent people to watch over and support them while in foster care and finding a forever home.   Recently, two of the children were adopted.  Being a part of their journey was definitely the most rewarding part of being a CASA. 

Please share a special moment with us about your advocacy work with your CASA kid or on your case. I recently had a situation arise on my case when one made an outcry against his caregiver.  I am so glad I was able to be there for them in a moment of crisis.  As their advocate, I was a familiar face and was able to play with them, help ease their concerns, answer questions and help provide a smooth transition to another placement.  Being allowed to be there with them in a moment of need was very special for me. 

 What is your favorite way to connect with your CASA kids during this time of virtual advocacy? Honestly, its just about catching up since our last visit.  When we FaceTime or Zoom, we discuss their interests, what they are learning in school and chat about whatever they want to share.  They love to talk, ask questions, and share new things they’ve learned.  The younger two love to draw and color me pictures, give virtual air hugs & kisses.

 Why do you think having a CASA volunteer during quarantine is important for foster children? This time of quarantine can be stressful on both parents and kids.  Now more than ever it is important for these kids to have an advocate looking out for them, making sure they are safe and being cared for.  When you can’t see them in person, it is important to be able to connect with them virtually and be observant for any red flags.  And most importantly, showing them that you will always be there for them regardless of the circumstances.

National Volunteer Week: Debbie Michell

As part of National Volunteer Week, we are highlighting another courageous volunteer: Debbie Michell. Debbie says, “The longer I have been a CASA, the more I have enjoyed it, and the more I realize how many wonderful people it takes to make this organization work. So I am very honored to be recognized this month!”

What made you decide to become a CASA? After being a stay-at-home mom for 20+ years, I found myself with lots of time on my hands and still wanting to have children in my life. I thought that being a CASA would be a natural fit.

What is your professional/ volunteer background? I taught high school English, then I stayed at home raising my two children. During that time and since, I have volunteered for many organizations including the Americans Red Cross during the Hurricane Katrina aftermath, Operation Enduring Response, Tarrant Area Food Bank, Puppy Rescue Mission, Don’t Forget to Feed Me, Houston Pet Set, and Catholic Charities.

What advice would you give to someone who is thinking about becoming a CASA? I would encourage anyone who is thinking about becoming a CASA to just attend an information session, and you will be hooked! It is the most rewarding thing I have ever done.

What has been the most challenging part of being a CASA? The most challenging thing about being a CASA has been working on cases during quarantine.

What has been the most rewarding part of being a CASA? There are so many rewarding aspects of being a CASA, but right now I’m in awe of the wonderful people I have met through my cases. I am so inspired by people who choose to become foster parents and give so much of themselves to children in need. I have also really enjoyed working with my supervisor, Emily who has helped me tremendously.

Please share a special moment with us about your advocacy work with your CASA kid or on your case?Recently, while having a conversation with an exhausted foster mom, she said that she was so glad to have someone on the kids’ side, someone she knew would fight for them, even when it seems like no one else is. Those are the times when I realize that my presence really has the ability to change lives for the better.

Is there anything else you would like to add about yourself or the CASA experience? I know that as a CASA, I am supposed to be the one helping the children, but I believe that my life has been enriched in so many ways by every one of the children on my cases.

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? Like with everyone, quarantine has affected my cases and my children. I ended a case during lockdown, and began a new case as well. It was difficult because I did not get to say goodbye to my kids in person. And meeting the girls on my new case over the computer was challenging as well. It was more difficult to establish a relationship over Zoom. I did discover that they loved to see my dogs during our Zoom calls, so we spent a lot of time in the beginning following my dogs all over my house and talking about them. We talked about my dogs’ different emotions and likes/dislikes. It was a great way to segue into talking about the girls’ feelings. Now when I see them, I show them pictures of my dogs, and I give them updates. I think the hardest part of quarantine for my children has been school. They struggle with paying attention all day.

National Volunteer Week: Nikinsha Harrison

It's Volunteer Appreciation Week! We appreciate our volunteers this week and every week for all they do to advocate for the vulnerable children of our community. To celebrate, we are highlighting a group of volunteers and are starting with CASA Nikinsha Harrison!

What made you decide to become a CASA? I became a Casa because when I was a CPS caseworker, I had several Casa volunteers help me with my cases and they all were outstanding. They became apart of my team and accountability partnership. Casa made my cases easier to manage and encourage me to be the best caseworker I could be, even when I was overwhelmed with caseloads.

What has been the most rewarding part of being a CASA? The most rewarding part of being a Casa is the impacted my teenage kiddos has made on me. She has taught me a large amount about myself, especially in the area of patience’s and compassion. She is a resilient young lady that has endure a large amount in her life, but she has not given up and I am so proud of her because everyday is a day she can make better decisions.

Please share a special moment with us about your advocacy work with your CASA kid or on your case. A special moment I will always cherish are those hard uncomfortable conversations I have with my teenage kiddo and how she reflects and remembers those conversations and make efforts towards changing her life. That makes me smile and warms my heart because she is thinking, listening and making efforts to change her mindset and lifestyle.

What is your favorite way to connect with your CASA kids during this time of virtual advocacy? My teenage kiddo is in a special situation, so phone calls are vital and valuable. I look forward to the calls, mature conversations and growth on both ends of the relationship. We like to talk about moving forward and setting prosper goals for the future. We make plans as a guide to keep us on track.

Why do you think having a CASA volunteer during quarantine is important for foster children? A CASA volunteer during the quarantine is vital for the well being both physical and mental for the foster kiddos. We are their consistent support system, their home away from home, and their security blanket. Casa volunteers make the kiddos feel loved, cared for and not forgotten. They play a major influence in their kiddos life that will altar and leave a long-lasting affect in the kiddo’s life.

Meet Board Member Charlie Scherer

“My wife and I have a young son, so it’s easy to imagine what it would be like if he didn’t have someone that loved him and looked out for him. It’s really neat to see CASA being able to advocate for children that don’t have a parent or a guardian that is looking out for their best interest. We’ve really enjoyed seeing the impact that CASA make in these kids’ lives—they have never really had someone stand up for them and ask them what they need or what they want. And CASA volunteers focus on making sure their life situation is getting better. They promote growth and foster great relationships that can hopefully impact that child for a long time.”

“In my short time at CASA, I have really enjoyed getting to know the people involved, and see the passion that they really have for all the kids that they interact with on a daily basis. As a Pull For Kids Clay Shoot committee member, I’ve really enjoyed being able to meet all the folks that are part of this organization, as well as all the donors and volunteers that come out to the event to make it a huge success. I feel honored to be able to continue my involvement with CASA and look forward to seeing how the organization can continue to make such a great impact for Tarrant County and the surrounding communities.”

Children's Book Day: 10 Children's Books About Adoption, Family & Diversity

April 2, 2021 is National Children’s Book Day, and to celebrate, we’ve accumulated a list of 10 children’s books about adoption, family and diversity.

All Are Welcome by Alexandra Penfold is a heart warming story that follows a group of children through a day in their school, where everyone is welcomed with open arms. A school where students from all backgrounds learn from and celebrate each other's traditions. A school that shows the world as we will make it to be. This is an excellent read for both children and adults alike.

We're Different, We're The Same And We're All Wonderful by Bobbi Kates is a great story for Sesame Street loving kiddos. This book offers an easy, enjoyable way to learn about differences & what truly matters. This book teaches us that in our lives, everyone is the same on the inside, and it's our differences that make this wonderful world.

What Is A Family? by Cassandra Hames is a colorful book filled with stories of different animals, surrounding the themes of love, adventure, laughter, comfort, and bravery. It helps young ones understand that our families all look different. Some are big, small, even friends can be family, anywhere there's love, there's family. Family will cheer you on when you need it and be there when life is tough.

My Two Homes - My Family by Claudia Harrington follows Skye when a classmate learns she has 3 parents, a mom, dad, and step dad - who all love her so well! This story is great for all kids to better understand that there are many different types of families, and it's great that some kids have a lot of parents that love them!

Tell Me Again About the Night I was Born by Jamie Lee Curtis helps us celebrate the love and joy an adopted child brings to a family. In this picture book perfect for all parents and children, a little girl takes us on a journey to the night she was born. This heartwarming story focuses on the significance and importance of a loving family. Along with highlighting adoption, this book also helps bring excitement for a new baby arrival.

We Belong Together: A Book About Adoption and Families by Todd Parr explores the way that people can become family in a lighthearted, kid-friendly way. With an understanding of how unique each adoption is, Farr's colorful book explores how sharing your heart with others makes a family.

I Wished for You: an Adoption Story for Kids by Marianne Richmond is a beautiful story for adoptive families. It follows a conversation between a little bear and his mom as they talk about how God chose to be a family. The little bear asks his mom lots of questions that many adoptive children have. This endearing book is a great read and affirms that love is truly what makes a family.

I Love You Like Crazy Cakes by Rose Lewis is a story about a woman who travels to China to adopt a baby girl. This heartfelt book about a mom finding her baby, and proclaiming her love for her in a multitude of ways. Readers get to join the mother in her adoption journey, and see the positive light both the mom and baby are in each other's lives. It's a great book to help kids understand adoption.

The Day You Begin by Jacqueline Woodson is a #1 New York Times Best Selling children's book about school-aged children encountering and overcoming feelings of difference from their peers. The story is centered around Angelina, as she shares stories about her summer to her class. This book is a must-have as it demonstrates the power of one's voice and the friendships that emerge when you are yourself.

Whoever You Are by Mem Fox is a book that celebrates diverse childhoods as well as the things that make us similar. Although we may not all speak the same language and our lives may be quite different, on the inside, we are all alike. This book is a great way to help children celebrate the things that make us different and the same!

Meet CASA volunteer Veronica Garza

What made you decide to become a CASA? I've always wanted to be involved in helping the most vulnerable in our community. I truly believe that we're here to be of service to others, especially those in need. When I learned about the important work CASA is doing on behalf of the most vulnerable children, I needed to be a part of that wonderful work, so I attended an information session and here I am today.

What has been the most rewarding part of being a CASA? Knowing that I'm making a positive difference in a child's life is what's most rewarding for me.

Please share a special moment with us about your advocacy work with your CASA kid or on your case. This past Thanksgiving, when my child made a thankful pumpkin, she wrote my name on it as someone she is thankful for. That filled my heart with so much joy!! It also reminded me what an important role we play in these children's lives as CASAs.

What is your favorite way to connect with your CASA kids during this time of virtual advocacy? Nothing beats in person interactions, but we have to be creative and safe, so video calls are a great option, and texting always works great with teens.

Why do you think having a CASA volunteer during quarantine is important for foster children? Quarantine has been a very difficult time for all of us, but it has been especially difficult for children in foster care who may be facing the most uncertain times in their lives. Having someone there for you, who is constant, who cares about your well-being, and who makes time to listen to your doubts and concerns, or is just there for you, that is priceless for these children. At a time when most of us have been scared, confused, and just plain frustrated with all the changes and isolation caused by this pandemic, these children have had it one hundred times worse, and it is up to us to be there for them and be their voice.

CASA of Tarrant County Focuses on Supporting Families during National Child Abuse Prevention Month

April is National Child Abuse Prevention Month, and CASA of Tarrant County is raising awareness of  the need for more dedicated members of the community to step up and become CASA volunteers, and help end child abuse and neglect, through supporting children and their families.

CASA volunteers, or Court Appointed Special Advocates, are everyday people from all walks of life who are recruited and specially trained to advocate for children in foster care and provide a consistent, reliable adult presence for them during a difficult time in their life.

“Our volunteers’ first priority is to keep families together whenever safe and possible,” said Don Binnicker, CEO of CASA of Tarrant County. “Foster care is only a temporary solution to the problems at hand. We need to create long term support networks that work to care for families, make reunification a possibility, and help break the cycle for the next generation.”

CASA volunteers are assigned to one child or sibling group to advocate for their best interest in court, in school and in other settings. They get to know the child and everyone involved in their life, such as their parents and other family members, foster parents, therapists, caseworkers and teachers, in order to develop a realistic picture of the child’s unique situation. They engage those important to the child and family in order to build a network of support around them, so that the family has access to support and resources after the case ends. They make recommendations to the judge overseeing the child’s case, with the goal of ensuring that the child is safe and the family has the resources, support and healthy relationships needed to heal.

Locally, CASA of Tarrant County served 1,106 children in the foster care system in our community in 2020, which means there are still 500 children who need someone to advocate for them. This April, consider stepping up to make a difference by becoming a CASA volunteer.

“There is always a need for more CASA volunteers,” said Binnicker. “By becoming a volunteer, you can take your efforts beyond just awareness, and do your part to help support children and families in crisis right here in our community.”   

When reunification is not a possibility for the children they serve, CASA volunteers work to find others that can provide a positive, healthy and loving environment. These can include relatives, friends or other adults that are important in the child’s life—keeping a child connected to their home community.

“We at CASA of Tarrant County always hope for the day when CASA, foster care and a national month dedicated to child abuse prevention are no longer needed because all children are growing up safe, secure and supported with their families,” said Binnicker. “Until then, we will continue to seek more members of the community to join our growing movement so that we can provide a CASA volunteer for every child who needs one.”

April is National Child Abuse Prevention Month. CASA of Tarrant County will have three ongoing pinwheel installations at Southlake Town Square, Levitt Pavilion in Arlington and at TCC Trinity River Campus in Fort Worth.

If you see abuse, report it to 1 (800) 252-5400 or go to www.txabusehotline.org. If a child’s life is in danger, call 911. For more information on CASA, visit our Become an Advocate page at www.speakupforachild.org/become-an-advocate.

Meet Our Spring 2021 Interns!

Tanner Huggins

Currently a sophomore as a Kappa Alpha Theta at Oklahoma State University, Tanner Huggins had been a volunteer with various organizations in Stillwater, OK and wanted to continue her “pay it forward” attitude as an intern with CASA of Tarrant County. Tanner is working on majoring in Human Development and Family Sciences with an emphasis on Child and Family Services. After undergraduate school, she plans on attending graduate school in hopes of becoming an Occupational Therapist.

Hanna Storey

Currently a senior as a Kappa Alpha Theta at Texas Christian University (TCU), Hanna Storey has worked with various foster and adoption agencies prior to her internship at CASA of Tarrant County. Working most recently at the Karyn Purvis Institute of Child Development; where our Trust Based Relational Intervention (TBRI) specialty originated from. Hanna, hailing from Colorado, is currently in Pre-Law and majoring in Child Development, and minoring in Psychology.

Miranda Jelinek

Currently a sophomore as a Kappa Alpha Theta at Texas Christian University (TCU), Miranda Jelinek had previously tutored and mentored fellow TCU students and foster children. She also worked with an organization that provided emotional support to those that have suffered various traumas such as domestic violence, anxiety, sexual assault, and more around the world all from her home in Oklahoma. Miranda is currently majoring in Combined Science, and minoring in Child Development.

Natalie Knapp

Currently a freshman as a Kappa Alpha Theta at Texas Christian University (TCU), Natalie Knapp had previously volunteers in various organizations that have assisted those with disabilities as well as child therapists Iowa. She was encouraged with her work with therapists to turn that into a future career. Natalie is currently majoring in Speech-Language Pathology and Child Development.

Renee Hollis

Currently a sophomore as a Kappa Alpha Theta at Texas Christian University (TCU), Renee Hollis had previously worked as an event coordinator and group leader – providing emotional support and guidance to younger students in her community in Minnesota. Working alongside local businesses and younger children, she became passionate in her future career path. Renee is currently majoring in Speech Language Pathology.

Paige Broski

Currently a sophomore as a Kappa Alpha Theta at Texas Christian University (TCU), Paige Broski had previously spent her time back in Illinois at a counseling internship at her high school. Attending to and providing support to her fellow peers. Thanks to her internship and passion for counseling, Paige decided that her future is meant to help others. Paige is currently a Psychology major, and minoring in Child Development and Spanish. She plans on attending graduate school for children’s counseling.

Olivia Shutley

Currently a sophomore as a Kappa Alpha Theta at Texas Christian University (TCU), Olivia Shutley had previously worked closely within her community – wherever she is at at the time. From Georgia, she led and mentored a group of girls as a camp counselor, then made her way to Fort Worth and worked closely as a volunteer to serve and help the homeless and refugees in the community. Olivia is currently majoring in Nursing.

Alexis Berry

Currently a sophomore as a Kappa Alpha Theta at Texas Christian University (TCU), Alexis Berry had worked and tutored younger students in Denver’s public housing communities, assisting both English and Spanish-speaking students. She also volunteer and assisted with an organization that served and benefited the children of Colorado that has life-threatening illnesses. Alexis is currently majoring in Economics, Political Science, and Journalism.

Samantha Fanning

Currently a sophomore as a Kappa Alpha Theta at Texas Christian University (TCU), Samantha Fanning had previously worked in various camps and groups that helped and served children in foreign countries. Devoting her time with developing infrastructure improvements and literary exchange programs, Samantha found her calling. Samantha is currently majoring in Early Childhood Education.

Maggie Slapshak
Maggie is a senior at Texas Christian University, but is originally from St. Louis, Missouri. She plans to stay here in Fort Worth after graduating this May and is hoping to complete her Masters of Social Work at TCU this upcoming fall! She would love to work in foster care and adoption someday, so she loves being at CASA and getting a look into the foster care system!

Honoring our Foremothers – Their Legacy of Advocacy

Image retrieved from https://njwomenshistory.org/discover/topics/activists/passing-suffrage-torch/

Written by Catelyn Devlin, LMSW – Director of Grants & Contracts

March 8th, 2021 is the International Women’s Day – a holiday nestled into the U.S. Women’s History Month, always in March. In reflection of this month, it strikes me how much inspiration I draw from the women who went before me: women who have been advocates for the wellbeing of vulnerable people – advocates for social change, always before the world felt ready to meet their demands. These women have shown us the cataclysmic power of raising a voice and have drawn portraits for us on what a better world could look like. They have modeled and paved a way for the advocacy we provide Tarrant County children in foster care daily.

My advocacy at CASA was made possible and largely given form by the women advocates who went before me.

• Queen Esther, who stopped a genocide by speaking up to a powerful ruler (who was recently celebrated by some of our CASA staff and volunteers during the Jewish holiday Purim)

• Lozen, Chiricahua Apache (born ~1840), a warrior whose skills allowed her to steer her people away from danger and whose bravery equipped her to battle on their behalf. Her brother Victorio described her as a “shield to her people”

• Ida B. Wells (born 1862) , who gathered important facts through her journalism and activism which shed light on the Southern Horrors of post-Civil War lynchings of Black men and lynch laws in the American South. When asked to march at the back of the 1913 Suffrage Parade in Washington, D.C., Wells creatively resisted and marched with the White Illinois delegation

• Irena Sendler (born 1910), a Polish social worker who smuggled 2,500 Jewish children across illegal borders to save their lives during the Holocaust

• Marsha P. Johnson (born 1945), whose brickwork activism led to increased equal rights for millions of LGBTQ+ Americans (including over 30% of foster youth who are LGBTQ+)

• The women farmers of India, who are currently leading the world’s largest protests – and possibly the largest protest in all human history – over an inhumane court ruling that would exploit vulnerable and essential farm workers

These women have demanded more, have demanded better, from those around them. It’s often made others uncomfortable, has led to name calling at best or assassination at worst. Thankfully we don’t face the same threats these women did, but as advocates, we demand more for Tarrant County children. When we demand better for the kids we serve, we’re having difficult conversations with others and might be seen as “problematic” at best, much like these women advocates experienced. However, their bravery to speak up on behalf of the vulnerable and to build better, more equitable world leaves a model to inspire us all. Let’s pick up the torch and continue in their legacy as we advocate for Tarrant County children in foster care.

How are you honoring and celebrating Women’s History this month? We’d love to hear from you!

Board Member Stefanie Mauler Featured in Simply Westlake

Making a Difference
Speaking Up For Foster Children In Tarrant County
Meet Board Member Stef Mauler

This article appeared in the March 2021 edition of Simply Westlake Magazine.

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Westlake resident Stef Mauler has always been supportive of organizations that serve the health, education and well-being of children. She recently had the privilege of joining the Board of Directors for CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates) of Tarrant County and serves on the Board Governance committee. Simply Westlake asked Stef to tell them more about CASA and how dedicated volunteers advocate for the best interests of abused and neglected children throughout Tarrant County.

Stef says, “CASA of Tarrant County is an organization of volunteer advocates who stand up on behalf of abused and neglected children. From helping siblings find permanent placement together, to finding a child a stable home with a relative, to uncovering information that helps reunite a loving family, CASA volunteers make incredible differences in the lives of abused and neglected children. These children in foster care are at risk of getting lost in an overburdened system. Their CASA works to find them a safe, permanent home. 95% of children in foster care who have a CASA volunteer find a permanent home - either reunification with their parents, living with relatives or adoption.”

Why did you choose to volunteer for CASA? “I have always been committed to organizations that serve the health, education and well-being of children and support the family unit. Strong families build strong communities. And with that, all kinds of good things happen. Education improves. Health improves. Safety improves. People get happier. Families get better. It’s a virtual cycle.

Child abuse is not a poor person’s problem. Tarrant County boasts some of the most affluent neighborhoods in the nation and, yet, we also have the 3rd highest rate of reported child abuse in the state of Texas. And that number continues to grow, and is exacerbated by the COVID pandemic. Approximately 650 children were removed from unsafe home environments in Tarrant County in 2020. For many of them, their CASA volunteer is the only consistent adult in that child’s life. Children who have a CASA volunteer spend an average of 4 fewer months in foster care and are more likely to succeed in school. Children who do not have a CASA experience far more problems throughout their lives: 50% are incarcerated by the time they are 23 years old and 25% experience homelessness. Right now, we have 500 children who are waiting for an advocate. I will do whatever I can to see that they get one so that we can provide healthy environments for these children to grow into productive adults and successful community members.”

Describe any fundraisers or events that support the organization: “Although a lot of non-profits have been forced to cancel crucial fundraising events due to COVID, CASA has been fortunate to keep our outdoor events which allow for social distancing. I’m excited for our 5th Annual Pull For Kids Clay Shoot (casaclayshoot.org) on March 26 at Alpine Shooting Range. So, grab a team and take aim to end child abuse and keep children safe! Another favorite is the annual Superhero Run (casatarrantsuperherorun.com), which is a family-friendly 5K and 1 Mile Fun Run on October 30, 2021 at Levitt Pavilion in Arlington.”

How can others get involved? “No matter how you choose to support CASA of Tarrant County, your generosity enables the organization to serve over 1,200 abused and neglected children in our community each year. If you are interested in becoming a CASA volunteer, start by attending a virtual information session, where you will learn all about becoming a CASA volunteer. Other ways to help include making monetary or in-kind donations through the CASA website (speakupforachild.org/donate) or by hosting a Facebook fundraiser. Your gift of time or resources fights the loneliness these kids are feeling, giving them the comfort, normalcy, certainty and connection we all need right now.”

Meet CASA Volunteer Tracye Byars

What made you decide to become a CASA? I heard about CASA from a presentation at a Chamber of Commerce luncheon a few years back. When I heard of how they support children I decided that was something I would love to due once retired.

What is your professional/ volunteer background? I am a retired RN of 35 years. I spent most of my career working with mothers, infants and children in a variety of settings. I have volunteered with 6 Stones in Euless rehabbing homes, Mothers Milk Bank in Fort Worth, Cedar Creek Lake Area Chamber of Commerce and the Cedar Creek Lake Parrot Head Club.

What advice would you give to someone who is thinking about becoming a CASA? The best of advice is to ask lots of questions. There are so many layers to the system that asking questions or getting clarification will help with learning what a CASA can and cannot do.

What has been the most challenging part of being a CASA? The most challenging is having 3 children from the same family in three different foster homes. Communicating with everyone involved is sometimes difficult.

What has been the most rewarding part of being a CASA? The most rewarding is having the foster child actually call ME and want to talk and want to resolve an issue. I was not always able to remove their issue but was able to give them ideas about what they could do.

Please share a special moment with us about your advocacy work with your CASA kid or on your case. Two of the children may be placed in a home in another state. Watching the girls interact with their cousin on a ZOOM call was very refreshing. Helping them to build a relationship with their cousin is quite rewarding.

Is there anything else you would like to add about yourself or the CASA experience? The only thing I did not get to experience thus far is meeting with the children face to face. I believe that contact is crucial to developing long term relationships with others, especially CASA kids!

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 connect with the children by keeping up constant contact with them. We also do FaceTime and Zoom when possible. I think the children would feel a little closer to their CASA if they could see them in person.

Honoring Black History in February…and Beyond

Honoring Black History in February…and Beyond

Written, Edited, and Researched by: CASA’s Antiracism Focus Group

Black History Month was established by Dr. Carter G. Woodson, a Black author and historian, as an avenue to honor and celebrate the achievements and legacies of Black Americans – contributions Dr. Woodson noted were largely missing from American history books and classrooms. Dr. Woodson dedicated his life to expanding the study and celebration of Black history. It is important to note, although February is designated as Black History Month, Dr. Woodson never viewed Black history as a month-long affair. Black history is American history, and Dr. Woodson professed Black history be taught and celebrated all year long.

In honor of Black History Month and Dr. Woodson’s legacy, we are sharing five concrete ways we can honor Black history this month and every day.

1. Take time to educate yourself about Black leaders who, throughout history, have influenced your field of work. You can start by learning about these trailblazing Black women in child welfare and social work.

2. Support Black-owned businesses. Here’s a list of some of the Black-owned businesses you can support in our local community!

3. Celebrate Black voices by purchasing and reading books by Black storytellers, leaders, and historical figures. Consider purchasing books at locally Black-owned bookstores like The Dock Bookshop in Fort Worth.

4. Talk with the children in your life about Black history. Here are some suggestions for having these conversations.

5. Watch a film or documentary about Black history. Many popular streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime are specifically highlighting these films this month!

We encourage you to think about how you celebrate Black History Month and how you can be an active advocate all year long. How are you honoring and celebrating this month? We’d love to hear from you!

Meet CFE Coordinator Melanie Navarro

Melanie Navarro, CFE Coordinator

Why did you decide to come work for CASA?

Before coming to work for CASA, I was a social worker at a local behavioral health organization. In this role, I saw first-hand the impact that trauma can have on people’s lives and I realized that it was my calling to work with trauma survivors and their families. I was passionate about CASA’s mission to stand up for kids who have experienced abuse or neglect. When I saw a position open up, I jumped at the opportunity to join the CASA team!

What is your professional and educational background?

I earned a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Southwestern University in Georgetown, TX, and a Master of Science in Social Work from the University of Texas at Austin. Throughout my social work career, I have worked in criminal justice, behavioral health, and child welfare settings. I am also a Registered Yoga Teacher with specialized training and certification in trauma-sensitive yoga.

What keeps you coming back every month in helping CASA?

In my role as Collaborative Family Engagement (CFE) Coordinator at CASA, I get to work with many families. I love seeing these families come together to support the kids in their lives. Nothing makes me happier than seeing the kids we work with reunified with their parents or placed with loving family members.

What has been the most rewarding part of being on staff at CASA?

 I love seeing our CASA volunteers embrace the CFE model. We have volunteers who spend countless hours searching for family members, making cold calls to possible relatives, and really working to build a lifetime network of support around the kids on their cases. It’s all about building connections!

Please share a special moment with us about your work with CASA volunteers or supporters.

I worked with one CASA volunteer who was a huge advocate for the mother on her case. We often think about kids needing advocates, but we sometimes forget that adults need support and connection too! This advocate was always checking in with the mother on her case and helping to ensure she had access to helpful resources. I have no doubt that this supportive relationship was one of the reasons these kids were able to successfully reunite with their mother.

What would you say to a potential supporter?

If you are looking for a place to give of your time or money, CASA is a wonderful option! Our volunteers are so dedicated to the work that they do. We work with some amazing children and families and your support could make a big difference in their lives.

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

CASA plays a huge role in our community. Every child needs an advocate and CASA is here to provide just that.

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

Thank you for all that you do to support the children on your cases! These cases may have ups and downs, but I know that you truly make a difference in the lives of the kids and families that you are advocating for!

Meet CASA Volunteer Jennifer Roy

What made you decide to become a CASA? We have very close friends who have been foster parents for many years. Our friends had a unique sibling group with some internal abuse between siblings. It was the CASA on the case that was able to advocate for the child to ensure their safety. That CASA truly changed the life of a child and seeing it first hand inspired me to be there for another child.

What is your professional/ volunteer background? I am a travel agent and also manage our rental portfolio. I have been a CASA for the past five years and was a counselor at a pregnancy aid center prior to being a CASA.

What advice would you give to someone who is thinking about becoming a CASA? Being a CASA is an honor. Commit yourself knowing your support and advocacy is important. It will not always be easy, but advocating and being a voice for children that desperately need you is an invaluable experience and offers many rewards.

What has been the most challenging part of being a CASA? The challenge has been a different with each case, but I would have to say my biggest challenge is documenting visits and writing court reports. The lack of face to face interaction due to Covid-19 restrictions being a close second.

What has been the most rewarding part of being a CASA? The most rewarding part of being a CASA is seeing happy children and watching their parent(s) want to learn what they need to to be the best parent(s) for their children. Not just going through the checklist, but truly having a desire to learn and grow to be a better person for their children.

Please share a special moment with us about your advocacy work with your CASA kid or on your case
I had a case where siblings were separated by many miles for a period of time, so we met in the middle for a sibling visit. When I arrived one of them saw me on the parking lot and he ran so hard and fast, leaping into my arms. I realized right then that I was the “rock” for him as I was the only person who had been on the case from the beginning. That case lasted 3 years, but I was determined to never give up on being there for them.

Is there anything else you would like to add about yourself or the CASA experience?
Being a CASA has opened my eyes in so many ways and has been a huge growing experience for me. I am so thankful I made the decision years ago to be a voice for the voiceless.

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?
Since my current CASA kids are very young it has been difficult, but we FaceTime and also send video clips back and forth. In advocating for my CASA kids, I am walking beside a mother who never had a role model growing up and is learning how to take care and parent two children all by herself. I know if mom is supported well, she will be the mom her children need and deserve. I believe the quarantine has impeded my case to a degree as I believe face to face support would benefit mom and children. The human connection can not be replaced with screens, but hopefully soon that will change and we can make up for the many months of not being able to.

CAS Teri Reed says, “I feel Jennifer is deserving of the advocate spotlight because she has gone above and beyond in meeting the needs of the mother and children on her case. On Christmas day, they were out of food and Mom was out of hope. Jennifer had groceries delivered and spent hours on the phone encouraging Mom not to give up. I believe the children would have been re-removed without Jennifer's support and encouragement.”

Meet Board Member Kristy Odom

Why CASA? I’m honored to serve an organization that plays such an important role in the welfare of our community's children in critical times of need. Everything CASA staff members and volunteers do contributes to and considers the healthiest and safest outcome for the children and families we serve.

What first caused you to get involved with CASA? My awareness of the important role CASA’s advocates play in providing a voice for abused and neglected children in our community brought me to serve this great agency. There is much not witnesses and/or communicated on behalf of a child during a litigious process. The passion and commitment this agency and its volunteers exhibit is unparalleled.

What keeps you coming back every month in helping CASA? I come back every month to help CASA achieve its mission of advocating for abused and neglected children, ultimately achieving their vision of providing a CASA-trained volunteer to every child in need.

What would you say to a potential supporter? If you have a heart-felt interest in improving a child’s access to a bright and safe future, there is not better organization to support than CASA of Tarrant County. The impact of our trained volunteers positively changes the trajectory of every child served, giving them a voice throughout the process of securing their health and safety.

Why do you think it’s important for your local community to support CASA and what they do? Without CASA and its trained volunteers/advocates, too much would go unsaid, un-realized, and without the perspective of the child(ren) experiencing abuse and neglect, potentially leading to misguided resolution and continued harm to the child.

Do you want to share some encouraging words to our volunteers? The dedicated action of CASA volunteers to show up, speak up, and serve the families and children of our community directly reflects with the love in their hearts. They full-heartedly share their time, talent and treasure. It’s a privilege to serve alongside with and support these great women and men.

National Mentoring Month - CASA Volunteer Cathryn Kachura

In honor of National Mentoring Month, volunteer and Rookie of the Year Cathryn Kachura wrote this contributing blog post.

When I started with CASA, I volunteered out of anger. Such a negative emotion sounds like a weird motivation for a compassionate endeavor, but I personally knew of a child who was in state care due to abuse and neglect; I felt powerless. I literally Googled “how to help a kid in foster care” and was flooded with different chapters of CASA and stories on the good the volunteers have done—I have been on the ride of my life ever since.

From the very beginning, I knew I wanted to accept a case with an older child. I was adopted when I was just shy of 15, and in my own personal experience, it took someone very special to love me through my challenges and to teach me how to heal through trauma. I chose my case specifically because it felt to me the child had fallen through the cracks of the system. They’re an older teenager, they’ve been moved around through several placements, and permanent conservatorship by the state had already been solidified; it seemed they were destined to age out of the system with no one consistent to make sure they graduated high school with a plan to build a better future for themselves. I wanted more than anything for an opportunity to be that consistent person, to hopefully make a difference in reducing the chances of cyclical trauma. But in times before COVID, we were allowed to bond through hugs and face-to-face conversations with real eye contact; I’ve instead had to rely on emojis, care packages, inside jokes, and even some gentle mutual roasting.

The entire CASA training structure set me up for success, but the most useful tool I was given is Trust-Based Relational Intervention training. I’ve used the emotional affirmation techniques to validate my child’s experiences—negative and positive—building a strong bond of trust, and in turn, they’ve grown to communicate with vital transparency. They’ve allowed me to advocate for them and they’ve taken direction in learning to advocate for themselves.

I was honored to receive recognition as CASA Rookie Advocate of the Year. I wasn’t expecting it at all, I honestly didn’t even know the awards ceremony was a thing, and I didn’t think the warmth in my heart could get any more comforting. Then the child for whom I advocate added, “Duh, Cat, you deserve it.” Y’all, I ugly cried.

I’ve learned a lot since I joined CASA as a volunteer, but I never would’ve guessed the biggest lesson: it’s 100% possible to fall in love with a child you’ve never met.

Meet CASA Volunteer Pam Reece

What made you decide to become a CASA? Being an educator my entire career, kids are my heart. When you hear that there is a need in your community, and that need involves the well-being of kids, you do whatever you can to help.

What is your professional/ volunteer background? After 30 years in public education, I retired, completed my doctorate, and am currently an adjunct faculty member at Dallas Baptist University, along with doing some educational consulting and teaching remote English II for Keller ISD. I was a CASA previously in Parker County, where I eventually served 3 years on the Board of Directors before moving to Tarrant County.

What advice would you give to someone who is thinking about becoming a CASA? Always have an open heart and an open notebook. The open heart will help you know what is best for the children in your cases, and the open notebook will keep you organized when you are talking with all the people in the children’s lives.

What has been the most challenging part of being a CASA? When I was sworn in, the pandemic was just beginning and everything had to be virtual. I thought that would be challenging because I knew what it was like to have those in person relationships. However, it has been the opposite. I feel like I am closer to my kids because, even though I can’t hug them, I see them more often and our virtual interactions can be deep, fun, silly, or spontaneous. One of my kids called to thank me for sending him and his brother Thanksgiving cards. I told him that we needed to FaceTime soon. As soon as I said it, he had already hit the FaceTime button and he was taking me around his house showing me the Christmas trees they had just put up! And yes, I said “trees”. There were seven in all!

What has been the most rewarding part of being a CASA? Knowing that what we are all doing for these kids is making a difference in their lives. Our goal is to advocate for them and help their lives to be richer and more fulfilled, but that is exactly what they do for us without even trying.

Please share a special moment with us about your advocacy work with your CASA kid or on your case? I have two cases right now with six kids total, so there are so many special moments. The most recent one just happened 5 minutes ago. My oldest kid called and said, “Did you hear?!” (She had just found out that a foster family had been found for her.) We practically cried and laughed together about it, because we were both so excited.  When I realized that she was supposed to be in school, I asked her how she was calling me. “I couldn’t wait to tell you, so the school counselor let me call.” Yes, it’s those moments…

Is there anything else you would like to add about yourself or the CASA experience? I also appreciate the support we have at CASA of Tarrant County. If I need anything or have a question, I know that my supervisor, Jennifer Parker, will lead me in the right direction. It’s knowing there is always someone you can go to for support or advice that makes all the difference.

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 this crazy pandemic, my kids and I use Zoom, FaceTime, or Google Duo. I always ask the foster families what works best for them. Each of the foster parents are great about finding time for me to visit virtually with the kids. Many times, they get on the Zoom before I visit with the kids. It really helps us to touch base on how the kids are doing and if there are any issues that I need to know about. It’s also a time for me to share with them the conversations I’ve had with teachers, counselors, speech therapists, etc. Everyone is working together in the best interests of the kids at all times. Now, we just have to do it virtually.