Mariana R. became a Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) last year and has already made a tremendous impact on the lives of three children in Riverside County foster care.
After graduating from Advocate University, Voices for Children’s (VFC) intensive training course for new volunteers, CASA Mariana was matched with siblings: 4-year-old Anthony* and 5-year-old Ellie*. Besides planning fun and thoughtful visits to Anthony and Ellie’s foster home, CASA Mariana also supervises a parental visit once a month as their family works toward reunification.
Recently, CASA Mariana offered to a take a second case and was assigned to 11-year-old Josh*. Josh’s caregiver speaks only Spanish, and CASA Mariana is fluent. She is sure to be an asset when it comes to communicating with Josh’s caregiver and his whole support team.
Besides being a reliable and compassionate volunteer, CASA Mariana is known for writing stellar court reports. The judge has even commended her court reports on more than one occasion.
“Mariana is one of those CASAS who just goes above and beyond in every aspect of her case. Her reports are always amazing, and she has the best details to include,” said Nicole B., CASA Mariana’s Advocacy Supervisor at VFC. “I appreciate her so much!”
Volunteer Name: Mariana R.
County: Riverside
Became a CASA: 2021
Favorite part of being a CASA: “My favorite thing about being a CASA is spending time with my case kids. They are amazing! I love chatting with them. At different times they may be smart, funny, serious, and moving; but they are always interesting. After each outing, I enjoy thinking about their reaction to that experience and planning what our next adventure or activity will be. It is a privilege to have the opportunity to spend time with them.”
You, too, can make a difference in the life of youth in foster care. Learn more about becoming a CASA volunteer.
*Names have been changed to protect confidentiality.
San Diego County CASA of the Month – September 2022