CASA Barbara has been a steadfast and compassionate advocate for children in foster care for nearly a decade. With every child she advocates for, CASA Barbara brings patience, warmth, and a deep sense of responsibility to her role. She never hesitates to step into unfamiliar territory, no matter how new or complex a case may be; she always says yes and embraces the challenge. Over the years, she has served nine individual youth, each with unique needs and strengths, including three young sisters who needed a trusting adult by their side.
When Ana*, Alice*, and Athena* entered foster care after a traumatic event, their futures were uncertain. Not only had they experienced significant upheaval, but there was a very real possibility that the sisters might be separated. Instead, their story became one of unity, healing, and long-term family stability, thanks in large part to the unwavering advocacy of CASA Barbara.
Meeting the girls for the first time in 2024, CASA Barbara stepped into a complex family dynamic already in motion. The three sisters, bright, spirited, and deeply bonded, had been placed with their maternal aunt and uncle following their removal from their biological mother’s care. Though the girls found safety and love in their relatives’ home, they initially declined to pursue legal guardianship, uncertain about taking on the role of permanent guardians.
From the start, CASA Barbara took a holistic, relationship-centered approach to advocacy. She visited consistently, building trust through simple, meaningful moments from helping the girls pick toys on a holiday gift card budget to reading books to shelter animals, and spending carefree afternoons at the park. Through her attentive presence, CASA Barbara helped nurture each girl’s individual talents. Ana, a natural leader, flourished in the student council; Alice, self-assured and thoughtful, took pride in her accomplishments; and Athena, playful and organized, found joy in school and made a point to keep her backpack perfectly tidy.
CASA Barbara didn’t just show up for the children, she showed up for the whole family. When the possibility of out-of-county adoption arose, the stakes suddenly became higher. Barbara became a key bridge between the aunt and uncle, social workers, and the court. She listened carefully as the caregivers expressed their fears of losing their connection to the girls, of not being enough, and of the financial strain that legal guardianship might bring. With compassion and clarity, CASA Barbara helped them navigate these unknowns, explaining available supports, offering resources, and simply being present as they wrestled with this life-changing decision.
Eventually, the aunt and uncle reached a decision: they would pursue legal guardianship. They shared with CASA Barbara that their love for the girls had only deepened. With a better understanding of the resources available to them and CASA Barbara’s continued support, they were ready to step into a permanent role. The court granted guardianship, and the dependency case formally closed, keeping the sisters together, in the home they knew, with family who cherished them.
This heartwarming outcome is a true reflection of CASA Barbara’s steady presence, thoughtful advocacy, and the meaningful relationships she has built over time. Her work embodies everything a CASA should be: dependable, resilient, and deeply committed to the belief that every child deserves to be supported. CASA Barbara is a champion for children and families, reminding us all that permanency is more than just a legal status — it’s about belonging. And it’s made possible by dedicated CASA volunteers like her.
Name: Barbara R.
County: Riverside
Occupation: Retired Proofreader
Became a CASA in: 2016
Favorite thing about being a CASA: “Finding that ‘right’ for my CASA child. Finding the ‘right’ can be challenging. However, when it clicks, there is so much joy.”
You, too, can make a significant difference in the lives of young siblings in foster care. Learn more about becoming a CASA volunteer and start making a positive impact today.
*Names and identifying details have been changed to protect confidentiality
