San Diego County CASA of the Month – March 2024

Each of the children we serve has childhood experiences of trauma, including abuse and neglect. Because of their lived experience, children who spend time in foster care score lower than their peers on most measures of well-being. Ensuring that we address the mental health needs of children in foster care has become critical, and a Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) can be a lifeline for helping them achieve stability.

In 2021, CASA Ashley met 14-year-old Sophia*, a young teen with multiple developmental diagnoses and mental health illnesses who had been abandoned numerous times because previous legal guardians struggled to provide the level of care Sophia needed. Her intricate medical history made it challenging to identify a suitable placement. Nonetheless, CASA Ashley worked tirelessly to find a supportive placement for Sophia. After three years of exhaustive search efforts, Sophia is now in a small-scale, short-term residential therapeutic program. She is receiving specialized round-the-clock care and therapeutic behavioral services. Sophia is also supported by a dedicated team of mental health specialists, offering a ray of hope in her challenging mental health journey. Her path to recovery is still unfolding slowly, but CASA Ashley’s commitment remains steadfast in navigating Sophia’s journey, finding practical solutions, and providing a promising environment for her ongoing recovery.

CASA Ashley’s consistent advocacy for Sophia has enabled her to trust an adult for the first time in a long time, setting a new course for building and caring for future relationships with others. CASA Ashley shared that when she first met Sophia, she felt she needed to plan engaging activities for their outings. Over time, CASA Ashley realized Sophia responded better to simple activities like walking or hiking. “My youth was enduring so much mental and emotional stress in her day-to-day that quieter and simpler visits were providing her the emotional break that she needed,” shared CASA Ashley.

Aside from the typical stressors of life, youth in foster care are facing many additional challenges. They are likely experiencing frustration and fear, adjusting to new environments, or feeling like they don’t have any control. All of these can put a strain on their mental health. CASA Ashley states, “Addressing our youths’ mental health and supporting them through the tough times can help them cope with their challenges, keep them safe, and aid in the transitions they are experiencing.”

According to the Harvard Center on the Developing Child, the single most common factor for children who develop the capacity to overcome profound hardships is at least one stable and committed relationship with a supportive adult. CASA Ashley is a stellar example of how her connection with Sophia is paving the way for Sophia to overcome the challenges she faces, encounter positive experiences, and thrive.

Name: Ashley C.
County: San Diego
Occupation: Software Training Specialist
Became a CASA in: 2021
Advice to a new CASA: “Think of yourself as the glue that holds the kiddo’s support system together. There will be many different resources involved in the case, and keeping lines of communication open will be important.”

You, too, can make a difference in the lives of youth in foster care. Learn more about becoming a CASA volunteer.

*Names and identifying details have been changed to protect confidentiality