Because CASA Was There: Jessica

When Jessica was 2 years old, Child Protective Services removed her from the home of her mother, who could not care for Jessica safely because of severe mental illness and drug addiction. An elderly aunt agreed to care for Jessica, but, two years later, CPS found that Jessica suffered a broken leg as a result of physical abuse by her aunt. Locie stepped in as Jessica's CASA volunteer.

Locie and her CASA supervisor, Glenda, interviewed Jessica's foster mother and discovered Jessica was developmentally delayed. At four, she was not potty-trained, had delayed motor skills and was behind on her language and social skills. She needed a variety of services, including speech and occupational therapy. From interviews with the foster mom and licensed professionals, Locie knew that the foster mom could not connect Jessica with the services required to meet her needs. Locie, with help from Glenda, advocated for an appropriate foster home where the caregivers would work cooperatively with social service workers to address Jessica's developmental delays.

Locie spoke with CPS and made sure Jessica received assistance to help her catch up to other children her age. Being placed in a safe, encouraging home transformed Jessica's life. She quickly caught up with other children her age, became potty-trained and made progress with her colors and alphabet. She was adopted at age 5, a year after Locie became her CASA volunteer. Today, Jessica is thriving. She is involved with Girl Scouts and her family's local church and stays in touch with Locie.

*Children's names have been changed to protect their identity.