Why did you decide to become a Child Advocate volunteer?
As a court employee who clerked in the courtroom, I had the opportunity to listen to CASAs advocating for their kids at hearings. What they had to say and the passion they had for what they were doing inspired me to become a CASA when I retired.
What has been your most memorable experience as a CASA?
When one of my kids asked, when informed he was getting a new DHS caseworker, "Does that mean I have to get a new CASA too?" And when I told him no, that I would still be his CASA, he gave me a big hug and said, "I'm glad you'll still be here." Which made me realize that I was making a difference in this child's life.
What is your life like outside of volunteering with Child Advocates?
Retired Judicial Support Specialist for the Oregon Judicial Dept. Widowed, with two sons and one granddaughter. Siblings and extended family in New England, where I was born and raised, and in California. Also volunteer at the Mid-Columbia Senior Center, the Sheriff's Dept. and Mid-Columbia Council of Governments with the SHIBA program and the Money Management program. Love to read, garden, ride my bike, and bake bread.
What would you tell someone who is interested in volunteering for CGCASA, but hasn’t yet made the commitment?
That it is interesting, sometimes frustrating, emotionally demanding work, and one of the most satisfying things I have done in my life. These kids need people who care about them, who are willing to take the time to get to know them, and to stand up and speak for the child's interests in court. |