Every day, Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASAs) stand up for children in foster care, often becoming the one consistent adult a child can count on. While CASAs may not have the authority to make legal or medical decisions, their presence, advocacy, and voice can profoundly impact a child’s life. Sometimes, that impact can be the difference between a child being overlooked and a child being saved. This month, we recognize CASA Susie, whose unwavering dedication and compassionate advocacy truly changed the course of Leia’s* life.
In September 2024, newly appointed CASA volunteer Susie was matched with Leia, a 17-year-old youth from Riverside County who had been placed in a group home in San Diego County. From the beginning, CASA Susie dedicated herself to building a strong and trusting relationship with Leia, which would soon prove to be life-changing.
During their early visits, Leia occasionally shared that she wasn’t feeling well. CASA Susie took these concerns seriously and consistently reported them to the group home staff. Unfortunately, the staff appeared largely unconcerned, and no significant action was taken until February 2025, when Leia was hospitalized. The group home informed CASA Susie only after Leia was admitted. Without hesitation, CASA Susie rushed to the hospital, with a court order in hand, to speak with Leia’s medical team. She immediately contacted her Advocacy Supervisor, who advised her to contact Leia’s social worker and attorney to ensure everyone was on the same page. Both were unaware of Leia’s hospitalization and expressed deep gratitude to CASA Susie for keeping them informed.
In the days following Leia’s admission, CASA Susie remained in close communication with her medical team and visited her nearly every day. Throughout this time, CASA Susie noticed that no one from the group home had come to visit Leia, which she found disheartening. The experience served as a powerful reminder of just how meaningful a CASA’s presence can be. For Leia, CASA Susie became a steady, caring support during a difficult and uncertain time—proof that sometimes, simply showing up can make all the difference.
Later that same week, Leia had a court hearing. CASA Susie joined by phone and gave the judge a detailed update on Leia’s medical condition and the ongoing treatment efforts. A Program Manager from the Voices for Children Riverside County office was present in court and reported that the judge was incredibly appreciative of CASA Susie’s dedication and timely advocacy. Leia’s attorney, who has known her for over seven years, also shared a powerful statement in court. She said, “CASA Susie quite literally saved Leia’s life. For years, Leia had complained of stomach aches and frequently used Tums. It never occurred to anyone—caregivers, clinicians, or service providers—that a more serious medical issue could be the cause. Leia had never trusted anyone enough to share how she truly felt.” The minor’s attorney concluded by saying she had never seen the kind of deep, trusting connection that CASA Susie has built with Leia. In just a few short months, CASA Susie demonstrated what it means to be a voice for a child in foster care — one who listens, observes, and acts with compassion and urgency.
CASA Susie’s empathy, patience, and consistent presence created a safe space for Leia to open up. Her advocacy led to a diagnosis of a rare and severe medical disorder that could have been fatal if left untreated. Thanks to CASA Susie’s unwavering commitment, Leia is now receiving the critical medical care she needs. More importantly, because of CASA Susie, Leia’s future looks very different today. She is on a path to recovery and a brighter future. For that, we are proud to honor her as CASA of the Month.
Name: Susie W.
County: San Diego
Occupation: Retired
Became a CASA in: 2024
Favorite thing about being a CASA: “Knowing I have the skills to make my kid’s life better. I can help fill in the necessary gaps and provide consistency.”
You, too, can make a significant difference in the lives of youth in foster care. Your support and advocacy can be a beacon of hope for young girls like Leia. Learn more about becoming a CASA volunteer and start making a positive impact today.
*Names and identifying details have been changed to protect confidentiality
Riverside County CASA of the Month – March 2025