The transition into foster care can be immensely disruptive for a child. A Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) enters this turbulent time as a dependable, caring advocate dedicated entirely to championing the child’s needs and ensuring they feel secure and understood. For the past six years, CASA Michelle has been the very definition of this role for Voices for Children. During her time as a CASA volunteer, she has served seven children. CASA Michelle is known for providing exceptional advocacy in every case she takes on, often keeping in touch with the youth. Until recently, CASA Michelle had only ever advocated for female youth. But in January 2026, she stepped up to advocate for a 15-year-old boy named Jack*, embarking on a journey that would highlight the true depth of her commitment.
When CASA Michelle first met Jack, he was carrying an unimaginable emotional burden. He was grieving the recent loss of his mother, experiencing housing instability, and transitioning into a Short-Term Residential Therapeutic Program (STRTP). Understandably, Jack was completely closed off. During their initial visit, he wouldn’t even make eye contact with CASA Michelle. But Michelle knew that trust isn’t built in a day; it is built by consistently showing up. During her visits, she learned about his favorite foods and started bringing him meals. On their initial visits, they simply sat together, ate, and talked. Gradually, the walls came down. Jack began looking forward to her visits and started opening up. Whether fixing his guitar at a local instrument shop or driving go-karts, CASA Michelle made sure their outings were always special.
CASA Michelle’s dedication hasn’t gone unnoticed by the other professionals in Jack’s life. During a recent Child and Family Team Meeting (CFTM), Jack’s Social Services Practitioner (SSP) even took a moment to specifically thank Voices for Children for assigning CASA Michelle to Jack, noting the truly amazing difference she has made in his life.
Jack recently moved to a new placement at a youth home, where he is making friends and continuing to play his guitar. True to her nature, CASA Michelle continues to advocate for him during this transition and promises to maintain their connection. CASA Michelle is a shining star at Voices for Children whose unwavering patience, fierce advocacy, and boundless empathy remind us all that sometimes, the most life-changing thing we can do for a child is to stand by their side consistently and refuse to give up on them.
Name: Michelle H.
County: Riverside
Occupation: Retired Casino Hotel Operations Manager
Became a CASA in: 2020
Advice to new CASAs: “My advice to a new CASA would be to just be patient and consistent with each of your newly assigned children. They need to see that you will really be there weekly or bi-weekly as promised, at the exact time you set, in order to build trust that you truly care and will be there for them to count on. Over time, you will build a close bond.”
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
