When Emily and her infant daughter entered foster care, they were placed with a relative. During the case investigation, I learned that Emily had not attended formal school since the third grade. Although her parents had provided an online educational program, there had been little follow-up to ensure she was making progress.
For October's Purposeful Perspectives blog Executive Director of Dougherty County CASA, Charlene Maldonado, reflects on what October means to her.
"One of the greatest rewards of being a CASA volunteer comes long after the court hearings have ended, and the case has been closed. Occasionally, a text message, photograph, or email arrives unexpectedly. It may be a picture of a child smiling on the first day of school, celebrating a birthday, earning an award, or simply enjoying life with family. Those moments are powerful reminders that our work extends beyond court reports and recommendations. They remind us that the relationships we build and the advocacy we provide can have a lasting impact on a child's life."
CASA volunteers are everyday people with a special heart to serve the best interests of children experiencing foster care. In Georgia, thousands of amazing CASA volunteers serve children and families in crisis every day. One way we honor and acknowledge this exceptional work is through our annual Awards of Excellence. Volunteers are nominated by local CASA programs for our annual Karen N. Sibley CASA Volunteer of Year Award and the recipient is honored at the Annual Conference Luncheon every August. Let's meet this year's nominees for Volunteer of the Year!
CASA volunteers are everyday people with a special heart to serve the best interests of children experiencing foster care. In Georgia, thousands of amazing CASA volunteers serve children and families in crisis every day. One way we honor and acknowledge this exceptional work is through our annual Awards of Excellence. Volunteers are nominated by local CASA programs for our annual Karen N. Sibley CASA Volunteer of Year Award and the recipient is honored at the Annual Conference Luncheon every August. Let's meet this year's nominees for Volunteer of the Year!
"I started thinking about ways to give back, to be a vessel for other kids who needed guidance and support. So, I did what many people do when looking for opportunities—I searched online for volunteer programs in Georgia. That’s when I found Cobb County CASA." Today's article marks the beginning of our "Volunteer Voices" series. Hear from Marcellus, a CASA volunteer from Cobb County CASA.
Building a strong, diverse board takes intentional leadership and collaboration. Discover how DeKalb CASA’s board chair and executive director are fostering a community-focused team dedicated to uplifting the lives of children and families in need.
"Fostering has taught me that control is an illusion. Despite our best efforts as parents, both biological and foster, there are countless factors beyond our control. As a youth pastor for 25 years, I had seen the struggles and heartbreaks of young people, but fostering brought these issues into our home, making them more immediate and personal." Jared Middleton shares his story as a foster parent, CASA volunteer with TLC CASA, and advocate for children and families in crisis.
Every child in foster care deserves a chance at a brighter future, and Court Appointed Special Advocates, or CASA volunteers, play a crucial role in making that happen. The impact of a CASA volunteer goes far beyond traditional support systems. Let’s explore the unique ways that a CASA volunteer can make a lasting difference in the life of a child in foster care.
In the fast-paced and competitive landscape of today's professional world, finding ways to stand out and advance in your career is essential. While traditional avenues are undoubtedly important, one often underestimated avenue that can significantly enhance your career is volunteerism. Engaging in volunteer work goes beyond making a positive impact on your community; it can also have profound benefits for your professional journey.
