While many are inspired by the difference a Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) volunteer can make in a child’s life, some might put off committing to this role because it can seem intimidating to balance a full-time job and volunteering. This is a misnomer as it’s a very doable role for a community member who works full-time — only taking 10 hrs a month to serve as an advocate. The desire and willingness to be of service to a child in need is the most important thing, and that is what drove Dr. Keri O., a CEO, co-founder of an HR consulting firm, author, and podcast co-host to become a Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA).
In November 2019, Brenda* and her three sisters were removed from their home due to safety concerns and severe maltreatment. During the height of the pandemic in 2020, CASA Keri came into the life of Brenda, who had just turned 17 and was a shy, soft-spoken young girl. Upon meeting her, CASA Keri learned that she loved to draw, cared for her sisters, and enjoyed school but struggled to stay on top of her schoolwork via distance learning. CASA Keri jumped in and met with Brenda’s school counselor and each of her teachers for the classes Brenda was falling behind in. From the feedback her teachers shared, CASA Keri was able to provide additional support, including office hours with her English teacher, access to an online math learning platform, and tutoring. Shortly after, CASA Keri took on Brenda’s educational rights, becoming the point person for all her academic needs. Within a few months, Brenda made significant progress in her grades and was on track to graduate. CASA Keri and Brenda regularly met on Zoom and text as social distancing was still in place. Halfway through the school year, Brenda voiced that she was getting frequent headaches and struggling with her vision. CASA Keri then worked with Brenda’s caregiver to schedule an appointment with an eye doctor. Brenda now has glasses, her headaches have gone away, and she is significantly more focused during her online classes.
In the summer of 2021, Brenda and CASA Keri saw each other in person for the first time since October 2020. During their outing, they had lunch at Brenda’s favorite restaurant and walked around a cosmetics store that was nearby. Shortly after, Brenda let CASA Keri know that she would like her to remain her CASA after she turns 18 years old. CASA Keri was overjoyed and humbled to know Brenda wanted her to stay in her life and continue to advocate for her. With CASA Keri by her side, Brenda began working on obtaining her California ID card, opening a bank account, and applying to local community colleges as she prepared for her senior year in high school. During the school year, CASA Keri supported Brenda in achieving the best grades possible, navigating the process of applying for financial aid, and helping her receive financial assistance to attend her senior prom and pay for graduation expenses. Brenda graduated in the spring of 2022 and was excited to start community college as a part of the Guardian Scholars Program, which provides comprehensive support services to current and former foster youth college-bound students. She had moved into her new independent living program apartment, which is close to campus, and was taking independent living skills classes.
As Brenda embarked on her sophomore year in college, the once shy and soft-spoken girl had transformed into a determined and assertive young woman. She now advocates for herself to successfully pursue her goals of majoring in illustration, learning to drive, transferring to a four-year college, and living independently. Despite this newfound independence, CASA Keri continued to champion Brenda, ensuring she received support to purchase a bicycle, receive behind-the-wheel driving lessons, and get art supplies as she began taking specific art design courses. Today, Brenda is a 21-year-old woman pursuing a bachelor’s degree in art at a local UC and is self-sufficient in finding housing, financial planning, and caring for her health. Her growth and perseverance are remarkable, and her actions are having a ripple effect as she has become a positive influence and role model for her sisters.
From the age of 17 to 21, CASA Keri has been a consistent and dedicated caring adult in Brenda’s life. Even though Brenda has aged out of the foster care system, this does not mean that Keri will stop being a trusted support for her. Their relationship has flourished, and Keri shared that she does not see herself ever not being part of Brenda’s life and vice versa. This enduring bond is a testament to the lasting impact a CASA volunteer can have on a youth in foster care.
Name: Keri O.
County: Riverside
Occupation: CEO of a HR consulting firm
Became a CASA in: 2020
Favorite thing about being a CASA: “The impact that you can make as a CASA is life-changing for both your kiddo and you. Being a CASA is a perfect illustration of the idea that ‘one person can change someone’s life.’ This experience provides both of us the chance to learn and grow. And, it is wonderful to advocate for someone who often does not have a voice.”
You, like CASA Keri, can make a significant difference in the lives of youth in foster care. Your support and advocacy can be a beacon of hope for children in foster care. Imagine the impact you could make as a CASA volunteer. Learn more about becoming a CASA volunteer and start making a positive impact today.
*Names and identifying details have been changed to protect confidentiality
DevTo Support Foundation Champions Youth in Foster Care Transitioning to Independence