Riverside County CASA of the Month – May 2024

One of the most unique and impactful figures in the life of a child or youth in foster care is a Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA). Unlike caseworkers, attorneys, teachers, and even foster families who might change, a CASA remains a constant presence in a child’s life, providing much-needed stability. This enduring relationship can last a lifetime, as demonstrated by CASA Lynn, a true champion for her youth, Claudia*.

In 2016, CASA Lynn met 13-year-old Claudia, a very sweet, soft-spoken young girl. At the time, Claudia was struggling in school, adapting to a new placement, and missing her siblings. CASA Lynn quickly formed a close bond with Claudia, sharing their love for going out to eat chicken wings. Understanding Claudia’s needs, CASA Lynn stepped in to ensure Claudia had everything she needed to thrive. For instance, when Claudia was having difficulty with math, CASA Lynn advocated for her to receive a math tutor to improve her grades. She also worked to increase the time of Claudia’s visits with her siblings, which helped alleviate her feelings of loneliness. As Claudia formed family connections, CASA Lynn also supported her in contacting her mother and grandmother and helped her create healthy relationships with them as she continued to grow. Additionally, CASA Lynn looked into funding resources for Claudia to pursue playing soccer at her school to help her be motivated and encouraged to improve her grades.

Having been in each other’s lives for two years, Claudia and CASA Lynn spent time together every other weekend, enjoying going to the arcade, seeing a movie, and eating wings at their favorite lunch spot. Claudia finished the school year on the honor roll for the first time and was now very focused on her academic future. She was living in a placement with her own room that she decorated with posters and had formed great relationships with the caregiver, the entire family, and even the neighbors. Claudia also enjoyed more frequent visits with her siblings and maintained a strong bond with her older brother. Overtime, as Claudia formed strong family connections, CASA Lynn also supported her in contacting her mother and grandmother and helped her create healthy relationships with them as well.

As Claudia started her senior year of high school, she was on track to graduate and striving to achieve her goal of working in the criminal justice field. CASA Lynn was there by her side for all of it, including when the city recognized Claudia for her service in the community as a mentor and tutor for middle school students through a school club she was active in. CASA Lynn also celebrated Claudia’s college acceptance letters to California State University of San Bernardino (CSUSB) and the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) by doing their favorite thing: eating wings! Together, they worked on her plans to attend college, obtain a part-time job, and participate in extended foster care.

With the challenges presented by the COVID-19 pandemic, CASA Lynn remained by Claudia’s side as she persevered through an abrupt change in placement, online learning, and limited contact with her siblings and mother. She was there to watch her virtually graduate from high school in the spring of 2020 and complete her first year in college. With the restrictions on gatherings, they remained in close contact, and when it was safe to go on outings again, they continued their long-standing tradition of going out to eat wings.

Today, Claudia stands as a shining example of resilience and personal growth. She manages her finances responsibly, advocates for herself confidently, and nurtures strong relationships with her family and those around her. Her journey towards a criminal justice degree continues, and she works part-time as a tutor for her former middle school. Claudia is on the path to independent living, a testament to the transformative power of CASA Lynn’s unwavering support, which has spanned eight years.

Name: Lynn H.
County: Riverside
Occupation: Customer Service Representative (retired)
Became a CASA in: 2016
Favorite thing about being a CASA: “Getting to witness Claudia’s self-esteem and confidence in herself grow over these past 8 years and to participate in her success.”

Imagine the difference you could make in the lives of youth in foster care. Consider becoming a CASA volunteer and learn more about this rewarding opportunity. *Names and identifying details have been changed to protect confidentiality