Samantha

Why did you decide to become a CASA volunteer?

I had heard about CASA many years ago through a variety of sources. I also work with an organization which provides after-school tutoring for low-income children, and we work with parents who overuse discipline to the point of being harsh. Growing up, I knew many children whose parents were sometimes harsh in their discipline to the point of maybe overdoing it.

What is the biggest challenge for you as a volunteer?

The biggest barrier to me joining CASA earlier was that initial training. 30 hours seemed really intimidating. However, the training is so relevant and on point and it develops the skills needed for a volunteer.

What inspires you to keep serving as a CASA volunteer?

I do it because I want to help children and their families break the cycle of violence. If that cycle can't be broken with the parents, we need to get the kids into a home where the cycle can be broken and they can live productive lives. Some of the children on my cases have gone back to parents, some haven't. I haven't met parents who don't, at some level, want good things for their kids.

Describe a memorable moment you've experienced in your time as a CASA volunteer.

The kids from my first case were just adopted by their grandparents. Spending time with these two boys and their grandparents has been a great experience for me. They've become a big part of my life.

What would you say to someone who is thinking about volunteering for CASA?

The lives of these children are a little bit better just because you visit them a couple times a month. It's a real blessing to be a part of their lives. The children are so loving in spite of what has happened to them.

*James French Photography