Abbigail Best, 26, became a sworn child advocate for Dallas CASA two years ago when she was just 23 years old. Her youth is not unique for Dallas CASA, which allows volunteers ages 21 and older. Dallas CASA’s volunteer profile is younger than many other CASA programs in the nation, with 37% of assigned volunteers in 2023 in their 20s and 30s. And the agency’s volunteer base is growing younger. In 2023, 49% of new trainees were in their 20s and 30s.
A native of Frisco, Best returned to Dallas after graduating from the University of Aransas. She works for Monument Realty as a realtor and lives in Dallas.
You’re a very young volunteer. What was your journey to getting involved?
My journey might be a little different than other advocates, but it’s also the reason I am such a young advocate. I had an abusive family member as a child, and my siblings and I found ourselves not safe and scared. I have firsthand experience with abuse, interviews with CPS and meetings with attorneys and judges during our case. It took a lot to get out of that tumultuous childhood to where I am today. I have worked on myself to break a cycle I didn’t know I was in, to better myself and my mental health through therapy. I wanted to change my future for the better.
My past, like that of so many of the children we serve, will forever be my story and shape me for the rest of my life, but it does not have to be all I am or something I will never heal from. That’s also true for every child Dallas CASA serves.
I have found CASA to be healing for me. I wanted to do something greater than myself and make my story have a positive ending. Not all of the system is broken, and children do have voices.
How did you learn about CASA?
I first learned about CASA when a coworker posted about her work as a CASA volunteer, and I was immediately drawn to do the same. I started training right away and am now more than two years into my journey, working my third case with no plans to slow down.
How do you balance working cases with a full-time job?
I am fortunate to work in an industry where I can mostly work my own schedule. I always make sure to contact parties on my case during the first week of the month, schedule what works with them and work my schedule around those visits. Working and volunteering are both priorities for me.
Your supervisor shares that you’re especially good at connecting with the children on your cases. What’s your secret?
I have always loved children from a young age, and they give me such joy. I even worked at a daycare for a time in college. I always remain myself and make sure the children use their voice and share what they need. I am an active listener and love talking to others of all ages and in all walks of life.
What would you say to someone who is considering becoming an advocate?
Know that you might end up filling a void in your life you never knew you had! It’s not easy volunteer work, but it is worth it and comes back tenfold. I feel tremendously grateful to be able to do what I do and give back to this community.
Any advocate or tips for current advocates?
I have found staying organized and on top of my caseload is especially important. After every visit, I sit in my car and write all of my notes into my phone, so I don’t forget anything, then when I get home I just copy and paste into Optima.
And lean on your supervisor in times of need or confusion. That’s what they’re there for! Don’t be afraid to ask questions of anyone on the team, including the child’s attorney or caseworker. And go to CASA continuing educations and functions. It’s so beneficial to network with your community and see who you are working with.
