It is easy to assume that the everyday routines of childhood, such as a consistent bedtime, sharing dinner at the table, or simply attending school each day, are a given. However, for a family in crisis, these predictable patterns are often missing. For a child navigating the foster care system, what makes the most profound difference is an adult who recognizes the deep need to help rebuild that foundation. Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASAs) step into this vital role by providing immense patience, deep understanding, and reliable structure. They recognize that stability is a process, and they look beyond a child’s circumstances to champion their unique strengths. When CASA Lisa was matched with Jay* in May 2024, she embodied this commitment, ready to provide the compassionate consistency he so deeply deserved.
When they first met, Jay was a bright, energetic eight-year-old boy who had faced significant hurdles. Early in their relationship, Jay was residing in a Short-Term Residential Therapeutic Program (STRTP). He was navigating extreme behavioral challenges. These trauma responses were rooted in the severe abuse he experienced before entering care. Because Jay’s outings were restricted until he met certain behavioral goals, CASA Lisa made sure to visit him regularly at his facility. She quickly learned that beneath his defiant moments, there was a child who was immensely grateful for her attention and thoughtful gestures. Over time, Jay has made incredible progress. Thanks to the collaborative efforts of CASA Lisa and the staff at his STRTP, he has been learning to process his emotions better and successfully use his coping skills.
Months into their growing connection, Jay’s progress meant he was ready for a more nurturing, supportive environment where he could continue to build on his improvements. This led to a transition to a foster home located nearly 100 miles away. Major transitions can be overwhelming for youth experiencing foster care, but CASA Lisa ensured Jay did not navigate this massive change alone. She stood by him throughout the entire process, helping him move and reassuring him that her presence in his life would remain a constant, regardless of the distance.
Today, as a ten-year-old, he continues to meet his milestones and thrives when he is active. Jay loves playing outdoors, engaging in sports, and spending time at the park. When he’s not outside, you can often find him playing Mario Kart or enjoying anything related to Star Wars. Jay is living with a strong, compassionate caregiver. In this new placement, CASA Lisa’s advocacy includes serving as an essential sounding board and source of encouragement for the caregiver during challenging moments. By supporting both Jay and the adult taking care of him, CASA Lisa has become a crucial stabilizing force. Her dedication has been instrumental in helping Jay maintain this positive placement. His progress demonstrates that when a child has a dedicated advocate championing their worth, they are empowered with the safety and stability they need to heal.
Name: Lisa T.
County: Riverside
Occupation: Psychology Professor
Became a CASA in: 2023
Favorite part of being a CASA: “Feeling like I’m making a difference in the lives of kids that really need help.”
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
