Meet Young Professional Council Member Jordann Reis

📣 Young Professional Council Member Spotlight: Jordann Reis

Jordann Reis is a dedicated advocate for the well-being of children and served as a Dallas County CASA prior to joining the CASA Tarrant County Young Professionals Council.

As a graduate of Trinity University with a degree in communications, Jordann now serves within the insurance and risk industry. She finds joy in various activities that promote physical and mental well-being with her husband and family. They enjoy playing golf, practicing yoga, and staying active by running after their two children. 

Hailing from Texas, Jordann proudly embraces her Texan roots and the fervent belief in the Dallas Cowboys' perennial pursuit of the Super Bowl.

What is Educational Advocacy?

What is educational advocacy?


Written by Child Advocacy Specialist Rachel Doolin

Educational advocacy is a partnership that ensures children receive the proper education (Children’s Integrated Center for Success). Specifically, educational advocacy could include 504 plans, IEP’s (Individualized Education Program), ARD’s (Admission, Review, Dismissal), conferences with teachers and administration. It is developing goals for both home and school to prepare the child for success, while reviewing individual recommendations on accommodations and modifications. Educational advocacy is talking with the kids and listening to them to figure out what they need.

It is difficult to know exactly what a child is going through at home or how they are internalizing events happening to them. Attending school, paying attention, and achieving academically may be the last thing on their mind. They might just be trying to survive and make it another day. Educational advocacy is advocating for that child that is trying to survive and doing what it takes to make them feel: safe, heard, and cared for at school. Educational advocacy is showing a child that you believe in them and that they are important. Important enough to help them figure out what they need to be successful in school. Sometimes, a child might not even know or have any idea what tools they need to be successful. Other times, a child might just need extra help in class. Advocating for them might look like asking the teacher what accommodation the child has, or if there are any accommodation that could be provided. Advocating might look like participating in an ARD meeting where school personnel talk about creating an IEP or review the current IEP in place.

As a former teacher, I had a student that struggled with their academics, acted out in class, and tried to be the class clown to make up for the fact that they did not learn in the ways their classmates did. Which is not a bad thing, everyone learns in their own ways – that is what makes everyone unique. I was able to work with their parents and administration and by the middle of the year, the child had a 504 plan and thrived from then on. All that child needed was for someone to believe in them and advocate for them so that they could succeed in school. From that day on, that child knew they had so many people that believed in them and were in their corner.

Meet CASA Volunteer Cynthia Thompson, LPC

What caused you to get involved with CASA? I have a colleague from many years ago who was a CASA. He always talked about how rewarding it was and he even took me with him to a training that he presented for the other volunteers. I have always kept that in the back of my mind. I am at stage in my life where I am ready to do something new. I chose this as my time to volunteer as a CASA.

What has been the most rewarding part of being a CASA? Meeting the child that I am working with and seeing how motivated the members of his family are to make the changes necessary to make him know that he is loved. The child I am working with is very happy and energetic. He knows that he is surrounded by the people who love him and are working to keep him safe.

What's your favorite way to connect with your CASA kids? My family is located a couple of hours from the metroplex. I generally face time or zoom with my CASA kid. I have made one face-to-face visit with him. It was nice to be in his energy in person.

Please share a special moment with us about your advocacy work with your CASA kids. Meeting my CASA kid face-to-face for the first time. It was after school so he had lots of energy. We met outside of his home in the courtyard. It was nice to watch him play with his friends. I was able to observe him interacting and lividing his life on his turf. He stopped playing with his friends for a few minutes to spend time with me. We did a crossword puzzle. It was the first time that he had every done one so he was very excited. I was happy to have reached that milestone with him.

Have you used a resource that you would like to share with other CASA volunteers? My main resource is My CASA specialist - Gabby. If I have a question or am unsure about something, I do not hesitate to contact her. She is very approachable and has been very patient with me. Sh3 keeps me on track.

What would you say to someone that is on the fence about becoming a CASA? Go for it! It feels great to do something for others - especially kids.

Meet Board Member Michelle Marlow

Please write a short message of support for volunteers. My heart overflows with gratitude as I think about our volunteers at CASA. As a board member, I realize that the heartbeat of our organization is the volunteers. Thank you advocates for loving our children in need in our community. I smile so big just thinking of you holding the hands of a child and providing each one the comfort of knowing they are loved, protected and worthy.

What are you involved with CASA? I love CASA’s Mission and Vision! I want to be the one to stand up on behalf of the abused and neglected children in our community.

What first caused you to get involved with CASA? As past president of the Junior League of Fort Worth, I dug deep into our city trying to find the areas of biggest needs in our community and where we as an organization could make the biggest impact in our community. Our children in Tarrant County were always top on our list! As a mother of 4 boys and teacher of our youth, my heart ached knowing there were so many abused and neglected children right here in our hometown. After researching what CASA had to offer, watching how they utilized their funding and most importantly watching the volunteers first-hand, I knew immediately CASA was a very special!

What keeps you coming back every month in helping CASA? Simple, the children!

What would you say to a potential supporter? Please consider helping us! Your support helps train our volunteers and our volunteers like I said earlier, are the heartbeat of our organization.

Why do you think it’s important for your local community to support CASA and what they do? Fort Worth (Tarrant County) is family, and family takes care of family! Thank you Judge Scott Moore for seeing the need back in 1983. You and your committee are commended for your good-works and I hope that we as a community can continue your wonderful Mission and Vision.

Meet Child Advocacy Specialist Gabrielle

Why did you decide to come work for CASA? I have worked in child welfare in Tarrant County for a few years and have always partnered closely with CASA. Their commitment to advocating for a child’s best interest and supporting children and families is apparent and something that I wanted to be a part of.

What is your professional and educational background? I have both my Bachelors and Masters Degrees in Social Work from The University of Texas at Arlington. I also have a Minor in Diversity Studies.  I have experience working in Child Placing Agencies with both the foster care and adoption units and with Our Community Our Kids as a Permanency Specialist.  I also completed a wonderful internship with Alliance for Children. However- one of my first experiences with the child welfare system was working as a nanny for a family of what grew to be 10 children as they journeyed through adopting a sibling group of 7.

What keeps you coming back every month in helping CASA? My advocates make up a wonderful team! They are compassionate, creative and dedicated to the children on their cases, and I show up every month to make sure they feel heard and supported so that they can continue improving the lives of children and families in our community.

What has been the most rewarding part of being on staff at CASA? The most rewarding part of my job is when an advocate experiences a “break through moment” with their kids. A moment of connection, and support where all of their hard work seems to pay off at once. Its rewarding for my advocates and a great feeling to know they have created a safe space and a healthy relationship for a child in foster care.

Please share a special moment with us about your work with CASA volunteers or supporters. One of the amazing advocates on my team handles a case with a sibling group of 5 who are in 4 different placements. The oldest child had not seen her siblings in a long time and struggled with her decision to come to visits or not. The advocate scheduled sibling visits with consistency and coordinated between all 4 homes. She made sure the oldest child knew about these and knew that she was always welcomed. After many months of her not attending visits, the oldest child finally attended one and had a wonderful time seeing her siblings- all thanks to the ongoing dedication of one special advocate.

What would you say to a potential supporter? Thank you for considering supporting CASA. Your support can change lives right here in Tarrant County in many ways. Your support will help us meet the goal of ensuring that every child has a dedicated advocate who will fight for their rights and best interests.

Why do you think it’s important for your local community to support CASA and what they do? With community support,  CASA of Tarrant County can ensure that children in foster care receive the support they need to heal from trauma and thrive in their daily lives.

Do you want to share some encouraging words to our volunteers? Your dedication to advocating for the best interest of children in the foster care system is truly inspiring. Your time and commitment is invaluable and appreciated! Your work as a CASA volunteer is changing lives and making a real difference in the world. Thank you!

Meet Board Member Debbie Cooley

Debbie says, “CASA’s are the best!!!!  To take the incredible amount of time that You take to ensure safety and a good outcome for children You’ve never met makes You ROCK STARS!!!!  I’m honored to be in Your sphere.”  

Why are you involved with CASA? I believe if we can get a child (that has had a rough start) on a path of hope, joy and love, we will have saved that child and our community and society a mountain of heartache.

What first caused you to get involved with CASA? Clark Rucker asked if I would be interested in being on the board.  It didn’t take very long to come to a Yes.  Having served on another nonprofit board dealing with child abuse, I was aware of the great work that CASA does.  Also, the admin at my company, Janice Mulliniks, was a CASA and often spoke of the organization and how wonderful it is.

What would you say to a potential supporter? You won’t find a better home for Your donation/time as it will keep giving and giving and giving.  You are not only donating to CASA, You are donating to a child/children that will also benefit our community and our world.

Another Successful Black Hair Care Summit!

CASA of Tarrant County hosted another Black Hair Care Summit, and our kiddos LOVED it! This was a fantastic opportunity for both children and caretakers to learn more about taking care of and maintaining hair for children that identify as black.

As foster and adoptive mom Caitlyn says “I understand the importance of proper hair care, however resources can sometimes be limiting. It was such a gift to have CASA host a training event”. Caitlyn recognized the importance of the Summit and commented that the “stylists that donated their time… genuinely care about our kids and want us as parents to continue to be developed in this area”, and that this Summit was more than just children getting their hair done - it was for the children to be “connected to culture and identity”.

Interested in getting these children the resources and items they need to continue with their hair journey, and eventual learn more about their culture and identity? Consider purchasing an item (or two!) from our Amazon wish list!

A Reunification Story

June is National Reunification Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness of the importance of keeping families involved in the child welfare system together when possible.

CASA volunteers work hard each and every day to make sure children + parents have a support system of family and other caring adults who are able to help when needed, and stay involved long after CASA and Texas Department of Family and Protective Services involvement ends.

CASA supporters make a lasting difference in the lives of vulnerable children - read Sara’s reunification story below!

“That was the moment I knew I had done something right.”

You made that lifechanging moment possible. Thank you!

At her lowest point, Sara didn’t think she would ever see this moment— reunited with her children.

Sara’s life was forever changed by having a CASA volunteer, Jasmin, who became a champion for Sara and her children. Sara acknowledges, “a lot in my life has changed for the better in the past 16 months.”

Your support of CASA is transforming the lives of children and their families. You make a lasting, positive difference. 

Jasmin has stayed in contact with Sara and her kids every week since they met over a year ago, checking in to see if they need anything, going to court, connecting them to health and housing resources, and even locating a double stroller that she delivered to the shelter when Lorelei and Ensley were returned to Sara’s care.

“Having someone standing with you in court on one of the scariest days you’ve ever had, speaking up for you and saying they’re proud of you, is empowering. I worked so hard for that moment, and I will never forget her support.”

“It was incredible to witness Sara’s transformation and baby Ensley’s growth. In my last few visits, I was able to see Ensley adjust to living with her mom and big sister, and Sara handled the transition with grace.” —Jasmin, CASA volunteer

Like CASA Jasmin, you care about kids like Lorelei and Ensley. 

For the first time in five years, Sara has a place of her own, steady employment, custody of her two young girls and weekend visits with her seven-year-old son, Braxton. She has watched joyfully as Braxton bonds with his two younger sisters. 

Your kindness made sure Sara’s children not only went home to their mom, they also kept their connection to countless relatives - providing lasting support.

“We’re a work in progress, but I’ll take all the chaos of us together over the moments without them any day,” Sara said. “Jasmin had to feel comfortable handing this little baby back to me, and I’m committed to showing my kids you can always make something of yourself.”

You know what that commitment is like. It’s your commitment to children like Braxton, Lorelei, and Ensley that has led to you being such a compassionate and generous supporter.

Jasmine couldn’t have been a CASA volunteer - couldn’t have been so consistently invested in their lives, without your help. 

Your compassion is helping Sara rewrite her future—for herself and her children.

Because you care, you offer Sara’s family and many others in this situation dignity and hope. You are a part of their journey to find a new normal. A safe space to land and to grow.

We want to say thank you—for every kid’s life you have already impacted with your advocacy, and every child’s life you continue to transform thanks to your compassionate care.

You inspire us to continue to fight for the future of all children who find themselves in the foster care system. 

The need is still great. Right now, another at-risk child is being removed from their home, and they need you to help them find a safer future. We are grateful to be able to see how much Braxton, Lorelei and Ensley have enjoyed being together in a safe home, and are inspired by your commitment to see that many more children have this opportunity. 

Supporting Families and Children in Foster Care Experiencing Mental Health Issues

May is Mental Health Awareness Month! We asked two CASA volunteers, who are mental health professionals, how the community can support children in foster care and families experiencing mental health issues.

“Knowing someone who is experiencing mental health issues or even knowing someone - who knows someone makes you a member of the community.   This means first of all, that we are not alone and mental health issues impact all families and all communities. 

As caregivers, it is important to remember to be patient, supportive and understanding with both yourself and your family member.  Establishing and maintaining appropriate and safe boundaries for yourself and building a support system are also key components.  Self-care is essential. 

Access to care and resources and sometimes a lack of desire for help can be barriers to supporting families.  As a community, we can educate ourselves by asking questions and reading articles regarding mental wellness.  Identifying resources - both local and national can help with education and understanding.  Family members may feel isolated and alone.  As a member of the community, we can stay connected by offering assistance when appropriate.  Sometimes that can be as simple as being a listening ear to a caregiver.  Advocacy and offering to help in general ways also communicate concern and support.

Supporting a family who is experiencing mental health issues can be difficult and frustrating for everyone involved.  Be honest and straightforward with concerns.  It is essential that we interact with individuals with empathy respect and compassion.  ”
— Cynthia A. Thompson, M.Ed., LPC-S, CASA volunteer
“As a licensed chemical dependency counselor and a CASA, I am given a unique perspective on substance use issues and how it impacts families. I’ve been in the alcohol and other drug addiction field for over 4 years and my hope is to provide CASA volunteers some guidance on how to best help children whose families struggle with substance use. First, how you approach the situation is important. Addiction is both a mental health disorder and a complex brain disorder. Therefore, a compassionate and nonjudgmental approach is the foundation to helping families who experience this disease. A person struggling with substances is not a criminal who needs to be punished, but rather a sick person who needs help. Secondly, it’s important for children and teenagers to be able to honestly talk about substances. By gently asking open-ended questions, such as “tell me, what do you know about drugs?” you can bring a taboo topic to light.

Oftentimes, drug use is kept a secret or the elephant in the room that no one talks about. CASA volunteers can hold space by letting the child lead the conversation. These honest conversations without judgment can give children a sense of relief and an ability to process the complexities of it. CASA volunteers can help foster kids by validating their fears and emotions about real life issues. CASA volunteers can also help foster children develop resilience skills to avoid using substances by encouraging them and asking them about their healthy activities/interests.

Lastly, CASA volunteers help provide a safe, nurturing environment. This healthy attachment is not only helping them cope with family issues at home, but also provides them with strength to handle life stressors. Together, we can help families heal and children grow. ”
— Robin Gildenzopf, MEd, LCDC, LPC-Associate, CASA Volunteer

Meeting the Health Needs of Children and Youth Experiencing Foster Care

The advocacy and support CASA volunteers provide is vital to promoting the health and well-being of children and youth in foster care. Navigating healthcare needs and resources can be difficult. Our CASA volunteers advocate for the best possible healthcare for the children they serve. Help us support the medical and mental healthcare needs of those experiencing foster care.

May is National Foster Care Month and also Mental Health Awareness Month. Did you know that children and youth in foster care often have a higher level of specialized medical and mental health needs? Nationally, up to 80 percent of children and adolescents enter the foster care system with significant mental health needs. Nearly 60 percent of children in foster care who are younger than five years old have developmental health issues. Addressing the medical and mental health needs of children and youth experiencing foster care requires an approach that focuses on their well-being within the context of home, family, school, work, and community. Through effective health advocacy, the children served by CASA of Tarrant County can receive the care they need and deserve.

CASA volunteers are specially trained and appointed by judges to advocate for a child or sibling group while they are in the foster care system. They advocate for the child in court, school and other settings; and get to know everyone involved in the child’s life, including their parents, foster parents, teachers, doctors, family members and others.

CASA volunteers advocate first and foremost for these children to be reunified with their parents whenever safe and possible. In fact, a core part of their role is to help create and strengthen a lifetime network of relatives, family friends and other committed adults who can support the child and their parents during their involvement with foster care and beyond – increasing the likelihood for reunification. When reunification is not an option, they advocate for the child to live with another relative or family friend. They can also advocate for the child to be placed in a loving adoptive home. In all cases, CASA volunteers are steadfast, consistent presences for the children they serve, making sure they are safe and have the resources and connections they need to grow and thrive.

This National Foster Care Month, support the work of CASA of Tarrant County! Click here.

National Small Business Week

During small business week, we are thankful for the incredible small businesses that have supported CASA of Tarrant County, personally and professionally. Their local support impacts our local community and the children that we serve. Below are just a few local businesses that have supported CASA of Tarrant County:

Garage Men’s Grooming: Dani Brooks

Dani and Dylan Brooks host an annual Garage Men’s Grooming Golf Tournament with 100% of the proceeds benefitting CASA of Tarrant County.

“We donate our time and our money because we believe in CASA and fully stand behind them in their support to help abused and neglected children” - Dani & Dylan Brooks

Casa Azul Coffee: Joseph Landeros

Joseph and his staff at Casa Azul have provided CASA of Tarrant County a place for people in the community to learn more about CASA of Tarrant County and our mission.

 

 

 

If your workplace is interested in partnering with CASA of Tarrant County, visit our website to learn more about our organization: www.speakupforachild.org. Or contact Victoria McKeon at victoria.mckeon@casatc.org to learn how your organization can help our vulnerable children in our community.

Coffee For CASA - A HUGE Success

On Friday, April 14th, $1 of every beverage sold at Dutch Bro’s Coffee was donated back to CASA of Tarrant County! Every dollar raised helps CASA serve abused and neglected children in the community.

Thanks to the generosity of Dutch Bros and all our supporters, a grand total of $39,065.14 was raised for CASA of Tarrant County!

Participants showed their support by wearing blue in honor of Child Abuse Prevention Month using the hashtag #coffeeforcasa. Thank you Dutch Bros for your generous support of our mission!

Thank You Volunteers!

CASA staff say THANK YOU to our dedicated volunteers!

It’s National Volunteer Week, and we want to say THANK YOU to our dedicated volunteer advocates, who work tirelessly to serve the abused and neglected children in our community.

From the White House Proclamation on National Volunteer Week: “Volunteering defines America.  Our Nation is a place where light triumphs over darkness, where we seek to lift everyone up, and where we lead not by the example of our power but by the power of our example.  As those who volunteer know firsthand, service also benefits the volunteer.  It can teach important skills, help build professional networks, and provide an empowering sense of purpose.  Volunteering brings people together, uniting us around our common belief in the dignity and equality of every person and giving us a chance to learn from others we might otherwise never meet.”

To celebrate, we are highlighting three outstanding CASA volunteers today and are hosting a volunteer brunch this week! THANK YOU!

Meet CASA Pam Darrow

What caused you to get involved with CASA? My increasing concern about human trafficking in the DFW area

What has been the most rewarding part of being a CASA? The occasions when my CASA kids are thriving, acting like normal teenagers, and can see a positive future for their lives. As I have worked with teens, I enjoy helping them with life skills for independent living. I was also thrilled when one of my teens asked if could buy a Bible for her. I gave her a teen study Bible and a card with verses to help when you are feeling certain emotions.

What’s your favorite way to connect with your CASA kids? Visits and phone calls, discussions of their interests and activities

Please share a special moment with us about your advocacy work with your CASA kids. One of my kids told me that she loves me totally out of the blue, I finally felt that she was beginning to trust me. Another realized that she doesn’t want to just survive, but wants to live a good life.

Have you used a resource that you would like to share with other CASA volunteers? Attending 5 Stones Task Force monthly meetings, the anti human trafficking task force for Tarrant county. I have heard many speakers who have been helpful to me as a CASA and have contacted some speakers for further information and guidance. I have also learned a great deal about trauma and how to relate to those with a trauma past by reading the book “The Body Keeps The Score”.

What would you say to someone that is on the fence about becoming a CASA? Being a CASA is a great way to contribute to the community and helping to break the cycle of abuse and neglect. It can be emotionally challenging, but very rewarding if you can compartmentalize issues and remain positive in your life. It helps a great deal to have a Helping Heart who does some CASA training so that you have an extra sounding board when you need it.

Meet CASA Mark Skaggs

What caused you to get involved with CASA? I never had kids of my own; I suppose it wasn’t in the cards.  But I’ve always loved kids and wondered over the years how I could make a positive input on the kids in our community.  Then one day I heard about CASA on the radio.  I soon went to an orientation session, and I was hooked.  CASA was the perfect place for me.

What has been the most rewarding part of being a CASA? It is especially rewarding to witness over time my CASA kids’ sense of self-worth and confidence grow, their anger and confusion dissipate, and seeing them explore their worlds in just being kids.

What’s your favorite way to connect with your CASA kids? There are so many ways, and all of them over activities.  Throwing a football, kicking a soccer ball, bicycle riding, and board games are our usual go-to events.  The most important thing is to find the setting or activity that they most like and are comfortable with.  For example, a favorite shared pastime with my youngest CASA kid is to hunt for pecans together, and then judge their tastiness.  For this hyper kid, that is our most relaxed time together, and which can open deeper conversations as to what’s on his mind, what may be troubling him, and what his dreams are.

Please share a special moment with us about your advocacy work with your CASA kids. For over a year in my case, my CASA brothers lived separately in two different group facilities, 2 ½ hours apart.  From their chaotic and at-risk background, the brothers’ emotional connection to each other was their only reliable one throughout their young lives, and it was heartbreaking to see them placed separately.  However, working with caretakers I was able to arrange bringing the brothers together for the first time in months on the older brother’s birthday.  Seeing their first embrace, and then playing together, is a memory I will treasure for a lifetime.  A few months ago, they were miraculously placed together in a foster family who wishes to adopt.  Visiting their new home for the first time and seeing the brothers in their noisy and happy environment completely lifted me.

Have you used a resource that you would like to share with other CASA volunteers? A couple of templates I’ve developed come to mind.  I’ve written a letter of introduction for schools that briefly describes CASA’s background and its role in a student’s life, the purpose for wanting to speak with teachers and coaches, with attached court assignment letter and ID badge.  This has proved useful in opening doors.  I’ve also developed a handy (to me) Excel template for tracking mileage, gifts, and out of pocket expenses and for tax purposes.   Finally, I’ve used the Google Translator app for communications with my CASA kids’ biological father, who speaks only Spanish.  However, my most important resource is my network of collaboration with my CASA Child Advocacy Specialist, OC-OK, ad litem, and other key caretakers in my CASA kids’ orbit.  I can’t emphasize enough the importance of nurturing this important network!

What would you say to someone that is on the fence about becoming a CASA? Don’t ever doubt whether you can be an effective CASA Volunteer.  If you genuinely care, then you’ve got the most important ingredient.  When you really care, your CASA kids will know it, and it can make a difference in their lives.  Finally, I especially encourage men to step forward to volunteer.  Guys, there’s really nothing like it, and seeing the fruits of trust reflecting in kids’ eyes where it was lacking so much before.  These kids desperately need a solid male to model stability, accountability, and care.  Rewarding?  Oh, yeah.

Meet CASA Shannon Sanchez

What caused you to get involved with CASA? One thing I have learned is never to say “never.” Originally from Virginia, I was required to travel to Texas two to three times a year for a number of years and said that I would never move to Texas. Not that I have anything against this beautiful state, but I am an east coast girl born and bred. But here I am.

I am not a religious person, but I do believe that God orders my steps and in 2019 I felt the call to move to Texas. Specifically, the Dallas-Fort Worth area and at the time I did not know why. I just knew that I had to go.

After being here for several years, my contract ended, so I began looking for another position on LinkedIn and stumbled across a profile for a Child Protection Policy Manager. I became intrigued. Coming from a policy background, I thought how amazing it would be to be able to merge my experience in policy along with my passion for helping others. I sent the individual a message, we then connected on Zoom, and from there she introduced me to the Public Policy Director for Texas CASA, Ms. Sarah Crockett. Sarah and I scheduled a zoom meeting where she shared with me about her role in her official capacity as well as her role a volunteer as an advocate. Yet again, intrigued. I wanted to know more. So, I signed up for the Texas CASA information session and the rest is history.

What has been the most rewarding part of being a CASA? I helped raise another child who I consider as my own, but I did not see this again in my future once my girls were grown. Again, never say never. Being able to impact another child’s life through advocacy has been one of my life’s greatest joys. Seeing the smile on my CASA child’s face lights up my day. Being told that he was once mute but knowing that he freely opens up and speaks to me is something that I do not take lightly.

What’s your favorite way to connect with your CASA kids? We connect through conversation, games and our favorite snack – Hot Cheetos. We speak frequently about various topics from school, sports, his concerns, etc. Every month, I have lunch with him at school and we end our time by playing a game of UNO. Which he always wins by the way.

Please share a special moment with us about your advocacy work with your CASA kids. After dropping off donated gifts to him a few days before Christmas, he still requested that I come back to spend some time with him on Christmas day. That spoke volumes to me. His request was granted, and the two-hour drive was worth it. 

Have you used a resource that you would like to share with other CASA volunteers? I utilize various resources to assist him and his family from organizations like Chosen Ones in Fort Worth to DFW Angels located in Dallas that provide mentorship services for children in the foster care system. I encourage CASAs to use every resource at their disposal. I have reached out to businesses and nonprofits for sponsorships and my CASA child was afforded the opportunity to participate in his first football camp this upcoming summer with professional NFL players. His dream is to become a professional football player when he grows up. Unfortunately, children in the system do not always have the privilege of participating in extracurricular activities or having things like a cell phone or driving privileges as a teenager. Playing football has always been a dream of his, so I wanted to see how we could make this dream come true for him. In camp this summer, he will have the opportunity to learn the fundamentals of football from the pros and learn his position. I believe that this is only the beginning for him.

What would you say to someone that is on the fence about becoming a CASA? If someone was on the fence about becoming a CASA, I would say don’t hesitate. Jump off and get involved. You never know the impact that you could have on a child’s life. Our kids need you and your involvement could change the trajectory of their life forever.  I believe one of the reasons I was sent to Texas was to help change lives and I am honored that I was given this opportunity through Texas CASA, and you can make a difference too!

Not only have I helped play a small part in my bud’s life (that’s my nickname for him), but he has also changed my life in so many ways as well.

Meet Our Spring Interns!

We are so thankful to have the support of our Spring interns! Learn a little more about them below:

Emma Anderson - Development Intern

My name is Emma Anderson and I'm a Development Intern with CASA of Tarrant County! I'm finishing up my senior year at Texas Christian University and will be graduating this May with a degree in Communication Studies with minors in both Political Science as well as Women & Gender Studies. I'm originally from the suburbs of Chicago but have loved calling Texas my home for the past four years. One fun fact about me is that I LOVE the super bowl halftime show and look forward to it every year (bonus fact: though Rhianna's performance was amazing, Lady Gaga's halftime show still reigns supreme in my eyes). I decided to intern with CASA because it is clear in all of their work how mission-driven this organization is. CASA creates real change in real lives, and I am honored that I get to contribute to a small part of that big change. 

Maria Fuqua - Development Intern

I’m Maria Fuqua and I’m from San Jose, California. I am a senior at TCU studying Marketing and Management at the Neeley School of Business. I decided to intern at CASA because I love what the organization stands for. Being familiar with its mission, I could see the difference it makes in the lives of abused and neglected children in Tarrant County, and I wanted to be a part of that service to them. A fun fact about me is that I love to travel and when I was studying abroad last year in London, I saw Prince William and Princess Kate at Windsor Castle! 

Mackenzie Preston - Grants Intern

My name is Mackenzie Preston and I am a social work intern with CASA! I am a first year Master of Social Work student at Texas Christian University. I am originally from Seattle, WA, but have called Texas home for the past six years. A fun fact about myself is that I love animals so much and hope to one day live on an entirely self-sustaining farm! I chose to intern at CASA because I am passionate about making a positive impact on the lives of vulnerable individuals, particularly abused and neglected children. Working at CASA, an organization that shares this same mission, has provided an incredible opportunity for me to enhance my skills and knowledge while making a difference in the lives of children. CASA’s promise and vision aligns with my personal and professional values, as I strongly believe that every child deserves to be safe and have access to the resources necessary to lead a happy and healthy life. 

Meet CASA Volunteer Pam Darrow

What caused you to get involved with CASA? My increasing concern about human trafficking in the DFW area

What has been the most rewarding part of being a CASA? The occasions when my CASA kids are thriving, acting like normal teenagers, and can see a positive future for their lives. As I have worked with teens, I enjoy helping them with life skills for independent living. I was also thrilled when one of my teens asked if could buy a Bible for her. I gave her a teen study Bible and a card with verses to help when you are feeling certain emotions.

What’s your favorite way to connect with your CASA kids? Visits and phone calls, discussions of their interests and activities

Please share a special moment with us about your advocacy work with your CASA kids. One of my kids told me that she loves me totally out of the blue, I finally felt that she was beginning to trust me. Another realized that she doesn’t want to just survive, but wants to live a good life.

Have you used a resource that you would like to share with other CASA volunteers? Attending 5 Stones Task Force monthly meetings, the anti human trafficking task force for Tarrant county. I have heard many speakers who have been helpful to me as a CASA and have contacted some speakers for further information and guidance. I have also learned a great deal about trauma and how to relate to those with a trauma past by reading the book “The Body Keeps The Score”.

What would you say to someone that is on the fence about becoming a CASA? Being a CASA is a great way to contribute to the community and helping to break the cycle of abuse and neglect. It can be emotionally challenging, but very rewarding if you can compartmentalize issues and remain positive in your life. It helps a great deal to have a Helping Heart who does some CASA training so that you have an extra sounding board when you need it.

You Can Help Prevent Child Abuse

April is Child Abuse Prevention Month, where our community works to make sure everyone has a role to play in preventing child abuse and neglect!

Last year, 555 children living in Tarrant County experienced child abuse and neglect, were removed from their homes, and placed in foster care. These children are at-risk of falling through the cracks of an overburdened foster care system. Child abuse is traumatic, and the best way to address child abuse is to prevent it form ever happening.

You can help prevent child abuse by raising awareness. On Friday, April 14, 2023, thousands of Texans will come together and wear blue – the official color of child abuse prevention, to show their support for ending child abuse. Wear blue on Go Blue Day – Friday, April 14th, 2023, to show your support for children who experience child abuse and neglect. Talk to your friends, family, and colleagues and encourage them to do the same!

You can also show your support by visiting our pinwheel installation at Levitt Pavilion in Arlington. The installation will be available for viewing April 3-30th. Share your visit on social media!

Want to make a bigger difference in a child’s life? Become a CASA volunteer! CASA of Tarrant County recruits community members just like you to advocate for children in the foster care system. CASA volunteers or “CASAs” speak up for a child’s best interests. After receiving training on how to be a CASA advocate, CASAs are assigned to a child or sibling group of children in foster care. They then visit the children every month and talk to the child’s case workers, teachers, therapists, and caregivers. CASAs gather important information to help judges determine if the child can return home, be placed with relatives, or adopted, and they make sure children’s needs are met while they are in foster care.

Social Work - the “Helping Profession”

Social Work - the “Helping Profession” by Child Advocacy Specialist Emalee Lyne, LMSW

Why are Social Workers Important?

Social work is often named the “helping profession”. The primary mission of the social work profession, “is to enhance human well-being and help meet basic and complex needs of all people, with a particular focus on those who are vulnerable, oppressed, and living in poverty.”1 Brené Brown says, “Social work is all about leaning into the discomfort of ambiguity and uncertainty, and holding open an empathic space so people can find their own way. In a word—messy.”2

Social workers work in many areas including aging, behavioral health, child welfare, clinical social work, counseling, crisis management, healthcare, non-profit management, public policy, school social work, substance abuse, and social and economic justice. Social workers provide knowledge, education, and encouragement to change whole communities. “When social workers are active in a community, it tends to have a positive impact on crime rates, health statistics, school attendance and employment.”3 In order to make a difference in communities, we see the importance of both large-scale change and individual change of those who make up the communities. The social work process includes meeting people and communities where they are at, assessing the situation and identifying strengths, assisting in developing individual and community goals, initiate strategies and interventions, and then monitor for success.

Social workers are important because they do not shy away from hard situations. They are not afraid to enter communities and the lives of individuals. Social workers build trust, show empathy, and walk with others to create change. Social workers do not provide instructions and then leave. We allow others to lead the way and walk alongside them, often carrying some of the baggage to make their load lighter. 

As a Licensed Master Social Worker, I believe my skills and background assist me in my role as a Child Advocacy Specialist. I not only am able to display social work values and helping skills directly to children and families, but I am able to model and teach our volunteers. I believe these small moments of teaching can create more social-work minded individuals in our community. This will hopefully lead to socially conscious community members, create positive social change, and increase compassion and love for one another.  

1.     https://www.socialworkers.org/Careers/NASW-Career-Center/Explore-Social-Work/Why-Choose-the-Social-Work-Profession

2.     Brené Brown, Daring Greatly: How the Courage to Be Vulnerable Transforms the Way We Live, Love, Parent, and Lead

3.     https://onlinemsw.fsu.edu/blog/social-worker-role

Meet Board Member Lindsey Freeman

Please write a short message of support for volunteers. I know the commitment and dedication it takes to volunteer at CASA. The work you do is important and I hope you experience fulfillment knowing the positive impact you are having on these children's lives!

Why are you involved with CASA? CASA is an incredible organization that helps children (and families) get through some of the hardest times in their lives. I can't think of a more worthy mission!  

What first caused you to get involved with CASA? I heard about CASA through friends and decided to become an advocate a few years ago. I've since been on the Women's Council and I'm honored to become a board member.  

What keeps you coming back every month to help CASA? I love seeing the success stories and knowing that children with a CASA are more likely to be reunited with their families or find a permanent home. I want every child that needs a CASA to have one.  

What would you say to a potential supporter? Do it! Being an advocate is one of the best things I've ever done! And there are other ways to become involved or help - Young Professional Council, the Women's Council, donations, hosting information sessions at your office or church, getting the word out to potential advocates.  

Why do you think it’s important for your local community to support CASA and what they do? As a community we must support some of our most vulnerable children. They deserve someone that focuses on their best interests and well being.

Meet Admissions Specialist Brianna Williams

Why did you decide to come work for CASA? I wanted to do something where I felt like I was making an impact and joining CASA made me realize that I’m a part of shaping a child’s future for the better. I couldn’t think of a better reason to wake up in the morning.

What is your professional and educational background? I went to Stephen F. Austin State University and have a Bachelor’s Degree in English. Professionally I have only worked in the corporate world in HR.

What first caused you to get involved with CASA? The mission of CASA really inspired me. Being a mom, I can’t even imagine what these families are experiencing, so anything I could do to help bring peace in such a scary situation is truly motivating.

What keeps you coming back every month in helping CASA? The people I get to talk to! My role is to interview incoming volunteers and hearing their stories and their histories is such an honor.

What has been the most rewarding part of being on staff at CASA? The education and the information. I could not believe how little I knew about the world of social work, but the number of families effected by this system is so vast, that I couldn’t believe how I didn’t know. It’s rewarding because I have been able to open my eyes and understand the community I live in, even though it’s not pretty and can be truly devastating. But just by knowing, I’m able to invest in my community for the better and keep pouring into it however I can.

Please share a special moment with us about your work with CASA volunteers or supporters. All of my special moments go back to when I’m in an interview with our incoming volunteers and we get to the root of why they are here. Why you want to be a volunteer is such a personal and beautiful story and the fact that I get to have candid conversations every day as to why these people are making the jump to join the organization is truly so special.

What would you say to a potential supporter? Do not take this consideration lightly. What our CASAs do is emotionally trying. Taking on the trauma of a child is so hard and it’s not something to do on a whim. You have so much support from our team, but understanding that this being a CASA is a role where you change someone’s life should be taken with the utmost consideration.

Why do you think it’s important for your local community to support CASA and what they do? No one is better or exempt for falling into this life. It touches everyone on every socioeconomic or racial spectrum and is deeply rooted in this community. I think once the community knows about how much is happening right under their noses, there is no way to turn away and pretend it’s not.

Do you want to share some encouraging words to our volunteers? We live in a world where we need to see immediate change and have immediate results. You might become a CASA and not see that right away and think “why am I here”, “why doesn’t this kid talk to me”, “why aren’t these people doing their jobs”, but just remembering that (as cliché as it sounds), just by being consistent and showing up every time, you are truly making a LIFE LONG impact in a child’s life that could be changing the trajectory for the better. Live in that mindset and lean on your CASA staff for support and you’ll see that change!

Meet CASA Volunteer Susan Jarratt

1. What made you decide to become a CASA? I’ve always dreamed of becoming a CASA.  As an educator, I’ve taught foster children, and they usually move to a new placement quickly.  I wanted the opportunity to have a positive impact on a foster child in a more profound and meaningful way.

2. What has been the most rewarding part of being a CASA? Recently two of my kids were placed with foster parents that were brand new.  They couple didn’t know the ages of the children so it was hard for them to prepare.  After finding out their needs, I was able to reach out to the community and get toys, books, clothes, and diapers.  The first time I saw my boys in their new placement, they were so excited!  Seeing them happy and seeing them grow both physically and emotionally is so rewarding. 

3. Please share a special moment with us about your advocacy work with your CASA kid or on your case. Recently two of my kids were placed with foster parents that were brand new.  They couple didn’t know the ages of the children so it was hard for them to prepare.  After finding out their needs, I was able to reach out to the community and get toys, books, clothes, and diapers.  The first time I saw my boys in their new placement, they were so excited!  Seeing them happy and seeing them grow both physically and emotionally is so rewarding. 

4. What is your favorite way to connect with your CASA kids? I love reading with my CASA kids.  Even if I do a virtual visit, I always send them the book so they can enjoy it over and over again.  My Kindergartener is now hooked on Piggy & Elephant books.  Sharing that joy is priceless.

5. Why do you think having a CASA volunteer throughout such a chaotic time is important for foster children? Being a CASA allows the children some consistency and positivity during a time of chaos.  Consistency helps them feel safe, and that’s what they need most.