San Diego County CASA of the Month – December 2024

17-year-old Lucy* is a sweet and spirited young girl who has faced profound loss throughout her life. From being put into the foster care system at birth to multiple placements and the heartbreaking loss of her adoptive mother, her life is one of both sorrow and strength. Struggling to find her forever home and supportive relationships, Lucy exemplifies the trials many children in foster care face. Then, she met her Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA), Tatiana, or “Tati,” whose nurturing presence in Lucy’s life and unwavering compassion have made a significant impact.

From the very beginning, CASA Tati has been a listening ear and even a shoulder to cry on when things have been particularly emotionally challenging. CASA Tati has been a steadfast advocate for Lucy, ensuring she feels supported in her new placement, that she has the services needed at school as a neurodivergent youth, and that she always has someone by her side. Due to Lucy’s traumatic history, she has always had a hard time with reactivity and tolerating distress. Knowing this, CASA Tati met with Lucy’s therapist, who shared that Lucy is an optimistic, fun, radiant girl with a magnetic personality. Together, they have worked on forming positive coping skills and helping Lucy construct a strong sense of self by modeling healthy self-disclosure. When CASA Tati learned that their sessions were ending, she prioritized advocating for and identifying therapeutic services for Lucy.

This Halloween, Lucy and CASA Tati met in the courtroom for an interim hearing to address the urgency for Lucy to resume her therapeutic services. The last place Lucy wanted to be on Halloween was at the court. To uplift Lucy’s spirit, the two of them agreed to match and dress up as black cats, wearing all black, small cat ears and make-up that looked like whiskers on their noses and cheeks. When Lucy’s hearing was ready to be called, the Judge and everyone in the court were told why CASA Tati was dressed as a black cat. The expressions on the Judge and the rest of the courtroom highlighted the power of empathy and the simple gestures that can bring light to adverse times. Lucy came in first, and CASA Tati followed behind her. Lucy was so proud of CASA Tati that when they sat down at the table, she raised Tati’s hand and proudly stated, “That’s my CASA!”

Lucy was positive and upbeat during the hearing despite it being emotionally depleting. CASA Tati’s whimsical presence was precisely what Lucy needed, creating a safe space filled with understanding and hope. Their shared costume symbolizes their bond — a vivid reminder that there is always space for joy and connection, even amidst life’s challenges. As Lucy’s journey in the foster care system continues, CASA Tati will continue to be her dedicated advocate and stand by her side through every twist and turn, ensuring she feels valued and supported every step of the way.

Name: Tatiana F.
County: San Diego
Occupation: Account Executive
Became a CASA in: 2023
Advice to a new CASA: “Knowing I have the unique opportunity to make a huge difference in a young person’s life by being a consistent, nonjudgmental source of safety and support. By being present and advocating for my youth’s needs, I have a front-row seat to meaningful moments of growth and overcoming adversity. It’s inspiring and deeply rewarding!”

You, too, can make a significant difference in the lives of youth in foster care. Your support and advocacy can be a beacon of hope for young girls like Lucy. Learn more about becoming a CASA volunteer and start making a positive impact today. *Names and identifying details have been changed to protect confidentiality