Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) Ginger C. is a standout volunteer with Voices for Children. Not only has she advocated for nine children during her seven years as a CASA, she also presents at Advocate University, giving information and encouragement to our newest volunteers.
Ginger’s latest case shows just how effective and driven she is as a CASA. Here’s what she was able to accomplish in the first two weeks:
- CASA Ginger was assigned to 6-year-old twins, Max* and Molly*. She immediately got in touch with their caregiver, who shared that the twins were struggling in school.
- After contacting the school, CASA Ginger learned that Max and Molly never received educational evaluations because their mother hadn’t sign off on them.
- From her experience, CASA Ginger knew CASAs could share educational rights with parents and that this was an area where she could provide support. She connected with the children’s attorneys, who filed paperwork with the court for CASA Ginger to share educational rights with Max and Molly’s mother.
- CASA Ginger worked with the caregiver and school to ensure temporary support services were put in place until the twins’ individual education plans were formalized.
In a short amount of time, CASA Ginger made a big impact in the lives of two young children. We are grateful for her service to Voices for Children and dedication to our mission!
Volunteer: Ginger C.
County: San Diego
Became a CASA: 2015
Favorite part of being a CASA: “For me, the favorite thing is the very last hearing. Whether it’s an adoption hearing or a reunification hearing. These families have overcome so much to be together, it’s incredible. It’s been such a privilege to have witnessed everything, the good and the bad. And, at the end of the day, the happiness in those kids’ eyes just fills my soul.”
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