When a child enters the foster care system, they face a whirlwind of shifting homes, schools, and social workers. A Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) serves as a consistent, trusted adult who steps in to advocate fiercely for that child’s best interests in the courtroom and in everyday life. This month, we are proud to honor CASA Debbie M., whose dedication to her 13-year-old youth, Tim*, exemplifies the transformative power of advocacy.
Since 2024, CASA Debbie has been a steadfast champion for Tim, standing firmly by his side through every challenge. Even after he was placed out of the county, distance proved no obstacle. CASA Debbie drove an hour and a half each way nearly every other week just to spend time with him, and routinely made the long trip to take him to court hearings and safely return him home. When a promised relative placement unexpectedly fell through, a devastating blow for a young boy already let down by many of the adults in his life, CASA Debbie remained his unwavering anchor, reassuring him of his future.
Recognizing that he needed help in school, CASA Debbie stepped up to become Tim’s educational rights holder. As a legally appointed adult responsible for making school-related decisions, approving special education services, and navigating Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), CASA Debbie fought tirelessly alongside Tim’s attorney to secure an IEP, placement at a specialized school, a full-time aide, an extended school year, and an in-home tutor to make up for missed school attendance.
Her deep devotion does not go unnoticed in the courtroom. During a pivotal hearing, the judge relied heavily on CASA Debbie’s detailed reports to order a safer, healthier placement for Tim, noting on the official record that without her extraordinary insight, critical details about his living conditions would have remained unknown.
Ultimately, the truest measure of CASA Debbie’s impact is felt by the young boy she champions. At a recent team meeting, the usually quiet teenager shared something profound: “Debbie is helping me learn to trust adults again,” Tim shared. “Her support just makes everything easier.”
By showing up time after time, CASA Debbie is giving Tim far more than advocacy. She has proven to him that he matters, that he is worthy of kindness, and that he is not in the foster care system alone.
Name: Debbie M.
County: Riverside
Occupation: Retired caterer
Became a CASA in: 2023
Advice to new CASAs: “I am always learning. It is a hands-on, rewarding way to make a difference in the life of a child in foster care. I didn’t realize, going in, how important a CASA is to a child’s life. The CASA’s input to the court regarding the child’s education, placement, and well-being is invaluable. CASAs are the eyes for the judge and the child’s attorney. CASAs can really make a difference!”
You can be the steady, caring presence a young person living in foster care needs. CASA volunteers help youth feel grounded through life’s most difficult transitions, offering guidance, encouragement, and someone they can count on. If you’re ready to stand beside a child and help them move toward a brighter future, learn more about becoming a CASA volunteer today.
*Names and identifying details have been changed to protect confidentiality
