When 17-year-old Dani* entered into foster care in 2025, he was facing an uncertain future after being abandoned by his mother in San Diego with no stable adult to support him. As more information came to light, it became clear that Dani had experienced abuse as well as significant hardship and instability prior to his arrival.
CASA Tim was assigned as Dani’s CASA shortly after he entered foster care, and the two immediately connected. They decided to have visits weekly rather than monthly, as Dani said too much can happen in a month to go that long without seeing one another. Additionally, with Dani less than a year from turning 18, both parties want to ensure he is well prepared for independent living by that time. Dani is interested in attending every event or opportunity open to youth in foster care, and CASA Tim is always right there alongside him at these events. They have visited museums, participated in shopping events, and attended multiple holiday parties together. CASA Tim makes it a point to attend every hearing and meeting as it relates to Dani’s well-being.
CASA Tim also holds Dani’s educational rights and has worked closely to support his success in school. Because transportation challenges led to absences and tardiness, CASA Tim helped secure funding for an e-bike and collaborated with Dani’s social worker to find additional transportation support. He has also taken the lead in communicating with school staff and advocating for credits from Dani’s previous school to transfer to his current high school. When Dani did not have someone to transport him to and from the bus for a school field trip, CASA Tim stepped in at the last minute. CASA Tim said there were no words to describe how he felt being there to share in Dani’s excitement as he navigates these new experiences.
On their last outing, Dani opened up to CASA Tim and told him that he is the only adult he trusts.
CASA Tim has said that his CASA advocacy has “Enriched my life, my thoughts, and my perceptions beyond my imagination.”
CASA Tim is working to not only ensure Dani’s basic needs are met but to give him opportunities to thrive, leading to a brighter future.
Name: Tim O.
County: San Diego
Been a CASA Since: 2025
Occupation: Retired
Favorite Quote: “I learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.”
–Maya Angelou
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
