Meet CASA Volunteer Pamela Darrow

What made you decide to become a CASA? I decided to become a CASA after I became increasing aware and concerned about human trafficking in our area. I also volunteer as a mentor for a program called Academy 4 at Daggett Elementary. My hope is that by helping these kids be less vulnerable to the path that can lead to human trafficking, it might be prevented. I also talked at length with a long time CASA before deciding to become involved.

What has been the most rewarding part of being a CASA? The most rewarding part of being a CASA is connecting with my kid and letting her know that I am here to support her, represent her, and do what is in her best interest.

Please share a special moment with us about your advocacy work with your CASA kid or on your case. There have been several special moments with my CASA kid. The first is that almost every time we talk or visit, she tells me she loves me and I return the sentiment. It gives me some confirmation that I am helping her. It was also very rewarding when I began calling everyone on a Senneca Search for any relatives or fictive kin who might be able to provide any information regarding a placement for my kid. Eventually a relative returned my call saying that she wants to help. I was so relieved!

What is your favorite way to connect with your CASA kids? My favorite way to connect with my kid is in person visit, however, with COVID and her being in a facility far away, I have only visited in person with her a few times. We have talked on the phone and/facetimed at least 2-3 times per week.

Why do you think having a CASA volunteer throughout such a chaotic time is important for foster children? Having a CASA volunteer throughout such a chaotic time is important for foster children as a CASA is a consistent, supportive adult at a time when there is very little consistency for these kids. In addition, it is a very confusing time for the kids and a CASA can provide some clarity, hope, and maybe a little laughter.

“My biggest hope in my volunteer efforts is to help these kids believe in themselves and their potential in an effort to prevent them from being vulnerable to a path that can cause them harm.”

Meet Board Member Whitney Vaughan

Why are you involved in CASA? I am involved in CASA because for several years, I represented children and parents in active litigation with CPS and I saw how helpful CASA could be to those cases.

What first caused you to get involved with CASA? I decided that I no longer wanted to work the child welfare cases, but wanted to continue to be involved with children in the foster care system, so CASA seemed like the logical place to get involved.

What keeps you coming back every month in helping CASA? I am motivated to help kids find stability and get them out of the foster care system into a permanent placement as quickly as possible. 

What would you say to a potential supporter? Supporting CASA is supporting kids who have been dealt a bad hand in life. These kiddos didn’t ask to be born into these situations and the support that CASA receives is a step in the right direction for the child. 

What do you think it’s important for your local community to support CASA and what they do? I think that supporting CASA and its mission helps to avoid the long-term concerns that are associated with children who spend a great deal of time in the foster care system. CASA and its mission help to reduce the risk of cyclical poverty and will, hopefully, help show a downturn in the number of children in care in the long run. 

National Self Care Day

Today (July 1st) is National Self Care Day! Thank you to Jennifer Sterling and Stephanie Books from Books and Sterling, LLC for contributing this blog post today!

What is Self-Care? A buzzword you’ve probably heard over the past couple years – but do we really understand it? We typically think of it meaning being indulgent (“TREAT YO SELF!”) or inactive (naps!) but really, it’s so much more. While self-care can certainly include those things, it’s really about taking care of all aspects of you and your health: physical, mental, emotional, financial… all of it. Talk about daunting!

So where do you start?

• Start small. Try to implement simple routine practices that are good for you. Create goals by breaking it down into pieces. Learn about creating SMART Goals here: https://youtu.be/1-SvuFIQjK8. (This could be making sure you have clean work clothes for the week to avoid creating undue stress later in the week.)

• Are there things you should let go of or say “no” to?

• What are some fun/ relaxing things you can do?

• Here’s a good introduction to meditation to get started: https://youtu.be/mtsdz_jhB7c.

• Work on bolstering your resilience! (Shout out to our CASA Volunteers who made this journey with us!)

• If you’d like guidance making these plans, exploring your resilience, and learning strategies, consider finding a counselor: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us

• Be gentle with yourself. Give yourself permission to not be perfect, mess up, and give grace.

"No matter what gets done and how much is left undone, I am enough. It's going to bed at night thinking, yes, I am imperfect and vulnerable and sometimes afraid, but that doesn't change the truth that I am also very brave and worthy of love and belonging."—Brene Brown

Helping Families Work Towards Reunification

CASA of Tarrant County’s first goal for children is to reunify them with their parents. However, we don’t just say we value it – we live it. In DFPS 2019-2020, 48% of Tarrant County children with a CASA volunteer were reunified with their parents; comparatively, only 36% of Tarrant County youth without a CASA were reunified with their parents last year. During June’s National Reunification Month, we wanted to share a couple recent stories of reunifications CASA volunteers supported.

Child Advocacy Specialist Megan, discussing a case where children entered foster care after one of their siblings was killed by their mother’s boyfriend– “At the beginning of the case, the mother was so distraught/grief stricken she was not able to complete her services and was not open in counseling.  Her two young daughters were placed with a family friend.  The advocate was amazing. She would go to almost every visit the mother had with her daughters.  About halfway through the case, something clicked for mom, and she began working harder than ever. She was open in counseling and worked hard to get services completed.  The advocate, Nancie, was able to help mom reconnect with her family who supported the mother’s ability to complete her services and regain custody of her children. Now that the CASA and caseworker are off the case, the mother’s family can still continue to provide support as they move forward as a family.”

Child Advocacy Specialist Tracy – “Andrea (age 17) was removed from their mom when she was four years old in 2008 and adopted by her paternal grandmother. She was eventually removed from the grandmother due to abuse, and she has been in care since 2012 and has experienced over 30 different foster care placements. During this time, she rebuilt a relationship with her biological mother who notified the department years ago that she would like for Andrea to live with her. At the time the mother first reached out, the home study was denied. CASA advocated for the Department of Family and Protective Services to reconsider the mother for a placement, and eventually they began the home study process for the mother. Andrea was recently allowed to complete a 30 day out-of-state visit with her mother while the home study is processed. Because of CASA’s and the Attorney Ad Litem’s approval, the judge granted the mom conservatorship over Andrea, and Andrea is now living with her mother full-time as she finishes high school.”

Please also see other reunification stories, including Justine’s journey to be reunified with her children and another video of mom Yvonne’s reunification with her daughter.

If you are interested in helping families work towards reunification, please check out our website on how to become an advocate or donate to CASA – your support helps us reunify hundreds of children with their parents every year. Thank you for your support of Tarrant County’s abused and neglected children and their families.

Meet Board Member Katie Carlson

Why are you involved in CASA? I chose CASA because I want to be part of the solution. Children deserve for the community to be on their side! 

What first caused you to get involved with CASA? A friend asked. There’s nothing more influential than the passionate request of those you respect.

What keeps you coming back every month in helping CASA? As the saying goes, you eat an elephant one bite at a time. Consistency from volunteers and supporters is key to affecting lifelong change. The children CASA serves need much more than a drive-by parade to wish them well. They need men and women to lead by example and leaders stick around.  

What would you say to a potential supporter? It’s worth it. The children are worth it. The time you invest today will have a lasting impact for generations to come. 

What do you think it’s important for your local community to support CASA and what they do? There is no substitute for CASA and the work they do in our community. With CASA, children are given adequate support to move past their trauma. With CASA, children have the opportunity to overcome the unfair beginning of their life.

Celebrating LGBTQ Pride Month, advocating for LGBTQ youth

As we enter June’s LGBTQ+ Pride Month, CASA is raising awareness of the needs of LGBTQ+ youth in foster care and the ways our advocates can speak up for their best interests! A 2019 study showed 30.4% of youth in foster care are LGBTQ+, compared to 11% of the general population being LGBTQ+. In 2017, a CDC study found 1 in 50 high school students identify as transgender or gender-nonconforming.

Youth who are LGBTQ+ are 2.7x more likely to enter the child welfare system, often because of the violence and abandonment they experience from their families when they come out as LGBTQ+. However, CASA of Tarrant County is working to provide resources for our advocates working with LGBTQ+ youth, including sharing resources from Texas CASA, the Human Rights Campaign’s All Children – All Families: Participating on Behalf of a CASA Affiliate, and faith-based LGBTQ+ resources.

CASA of Tarrant County staff also provided a recent training on LGBTQ+ care and advocacy as part of a training working with on older youth at-risk of aging out of foster care, and CASA is working to recruit more LGBTQ+ advocates through specific marketing and partnerships.

Meet CASA Volunteer Tara Smith

What made you decide to become a CASA? I decided to become a CASA for three reasons: First, I was fortunate to have part-time jobs during my undergraduate career that involved directly interacting with children. There was always that one child who gravitated to me more than the others, whose parent(s) would ask me to keep in touch so I can stay in their child’s life. Secondly, when “life happened”, and I became a single mom, the village stepped in on occasion and helped me with my son. That village consisted of family, friends, my church community, neighbors, coaches, teachers, and even some co-workers. Yes, I built a support network of people whom we knew were safe, reliable, and who cared. Therefore, my son and I agreed that one day we would pay it forward and partner with single parents directly or through an organization to extend our support and encouragement when possible. Lastly, although I was not subjected to being placed in foster care, I am no stranger to childhood trauma. The difference between me and the children I advocate for through CASA of Tarrant County is that my trauma did not lead to severe emotional, behavioral, or developmental problems.

2. What has been the most rewarding part of being a CASA? The most rewarding part of being a CASA is when I witness growth and maturity in a child's life. When a child repeats something constructive you have shared with them, that is evidence that the seed planted may someday produce a fruitful harvest in their life. Next, the Attorney/Guardian Ad Litem and Case Worker I have served alongside for a year and a half, I've had the privilege to listen and observe them in their roles, and they constantly demonstrate their commitment to the children in so many amazing ways. Knowing that they are working in the U.S. legal system fighting for these kids/future adults to be safe, healthy, loved, and have a chance to thrive in life, is meritorious.

3. Please share a special moment with us about your advocacy work with your CASA kid or on your case. One of my CASA kids experienced a meltdown hours after being placed in a new foster home. Even though the Ad Litem and Case Worker wanted to physically be there for the child, their schedule did not permit it. I requested the approval of the GAL, Case Worker, and CASA CEO to be there with the child, even though we were in a pandemic. Thankfully, the request was approved almost immediately by all parties. Upon my arrival, I was glad to meet one of the foster parents. My CASA kid was asleep and woke up surprised yet happy to see me in person. After the visit, I was informed of an emergency discharge meeting to remove my CASA kid from the foster parent's home. I was heartbroken at the news because, during my visit and interaction with the child, the foster parent observed the child’s loving and gentle personality. A good kid who deserved a chance to live in a safe home with a loving family and have an opportunity to just be a kid. Fortunately, the discharge meeting was canceled and as we take one day and one situation at a time, my CASA kid is still bonding with the foster family.

4. What is your favorite way to connect with your CASA kids? My favorite way to connect with my CASA kids is by playing games with them, such as UNO, Connect Four, Checkers, Jenga, etc., or helping them with a subject they are struggling with at school. Children will communicate their struggles with you if they trust you and feel safe with you. I have interacted with my CASA kids in person as well as virtually. Although nothing can replace an in-person visit, a virtual visit utilizing a video communication platform is much better than a phone call because you can still see their sweet faces and discern if everything is truly “okay” with them.

5. Why do you think having a CASA volunteer throughout such a chaotic time is important for foster children? For a foster child to have a CASA during a chaotic time is important because they will have someone who is both objective and subjective when it is appropriate. As a CASA, I've been able to be a consistent and stable force in the CASA kids’ lives while assisting with the navigation through the chaos. Serving as the child’s voice to the judge and articulating their best interests and needs are critically important. Although a CASA may be the primary face they see, other resourceful people are working behind the scenes, like my CASA Specialist, Megan, my immediate go-to person. For instance, Megan has made it possible for me to provide, food, clothes, coats, books, diapers, wipes, toys, and games for my kids through the CASA donations. There is a saying, “you’re only as good as your team.”

Meet Child Advocacy Specialist Megan Edge

This month we are spotlighting a CASA staff member - Child Advocacy Specialist Megan Edge.

Why did you decide to come work for CASA? My first job was working as a school social worker. In my capacity at the school, teachers would send me kids who were "at-risk" to talk to.  This role meant I often was the person on campus to whom the children ended up disclosing abuse. As a result, I would have to call CPS.  I had one particular student that came to me often dealing with severe abuse in her home. CPS was involved, and eventually, when she came to school covered in bruises, they decided to remove her from her mom.  That day,  we waited together in the school's front office for the CPS worker to come and take her—to where neither I nor she knew. It was so scary waiting for the unknown, knowing I had nothing reassuring to say to her about what would happen because I did not know where she was going.  At that moment, I knew I didn’t want to be waiting in the unknown. I wanted to find a way to actively participate in the lives of kids who were removed from their parents.  A friend from church suggested I look into working for CASA, and I was so fortunate that they were hiring!

What is your professional and educational background? I have a bachelor's degree in social work from Baylor University and master's degrees in social work and public administration, both from The University of Texas at Arlington. I am a licensed master's social worker.  In addition to working previously as a school Social Worker, I worked seasonally at Walt Disney World for eight years, driving the Friendship Boats.

What keeps you coming back? I keep coming back every day because kids in foster care deserve someone who is committed to them. They deserve someone willing to get into the trenches with them and know that every day won’t be easy but that we aren't giving up on them.  I am also genuinely so excited to work with my CASA volunteers every day.  They are the heartbeat of CASA, and I love getting to work with such an incredible team each day.

What has been the most rewarding part of being on staff at CASA? For me, the most rewarding part of being a staff at CASA is seeing the difference the volunteers are making. When I hear stories from attorneys and caregivers about the impact a CASA volunteer has made, it makes me so proud.  The staff at CASA are all working hard to help support those connections. When I hear about the relationships that are being made possible, it is the best feeling. I am currently on a case where a child had an incident report that stated she felt that no one cared about her except her mom and her CASA.  While we want her to have more supports and connections that she knows cares about her, I think it is enormous that her CASA could make that big of an impact and is showing her that she is listening and cares about her.

Why do you think it’s important for your local community to support CASA and what they do? I think supporting CASA is crucial because often, foster care is a hidden issue. It's whispered about in communities.  There are hundreds of children in Tarrant County waiting for a CASA volunteer—they deserve more than whispers.  They deserve to know that they are valued. They are cared about. Being a CASA volunteer may not be suitable for you—but knowing what the volunteers do and why they do it is essential to the story of success.  Child abuse and neglect happen when we don’t rally around children and their families, and when we don’t see the needs.  Supporting CASA and being a part of the mission of speaking up for children benefits all children across Tarrant County.

Do you want to share some encouraging words to our volunteers? Keep showing up! 2020 and the first half of 2021 have not been easy. But, you are doing a fantastic job, and we are thrilled to have you on the CASA team.  Stay connected to CASA through the Facebook group and your specialist.  We are here for you.   I am so proud that you have chosen such difficult, sometimes heartbreaking work to do as a volunteer.  The kids of Tarrant County deserve volunteers as wonderful and committed as you are!

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!