When 15-year-old Rosalia* entered the foster care system in 2024, she was facing some serious personal challenges. Amid the instability of changing placements and the emotional weight of separation from family, Rosalia was also grappling with the everyday complexities of being a teenager—seeking connection, asserting independence, and figuring out who she could trust. That’s when CASA Victoria stepped into her life.
From their very first meeting, CASA Victoria focused on building trust with Rosalia. Like many teens, Rosalia was fiercely independent, especially about her access to technology and social media. But underneath the bold exterior was a young girl struggling with loss, instability, and the deep need to feel seen and supported.
Over the past few months, Rosalia has experienced multiple placement disruptions. A resource home that initially seemed promising eventually broke down due to ongoing conflict around phone use and household rules. Despite the tensions, CASA Victoria was always there — sometimes literally driving Rosalia to appointments and school, and other times simply listening when Rosalia needed to vent or cry.
During this time, CASA Victoria’s approach has been grounded in empathy, honesty, and consistency. When Rosalia refused multiple new placement options due to their phone restrictions, it was CASA Victoria—looped in from across time zones while temporarily out of the country—who returned and stepped in with calm, clear guidance. She helped Rosalia weigh her options, think through consequences, and ultimately take a tour of a potential new placement. With CASA Victoria by her side during that visit, Rosalia felt supported enough to say yes. It’s this kind of support that shows what a CASA can truly offer: not just help with logistics or court reports, but a strong emotional presence that respects a youth’s voice while assisting them to grow.
Through every visit, CASA Victoria has consistently modeled what healthy boundaries, trust, and unconditional support look like. She has had honest conversations with Rosalia about topics like phone use, the importance of therapy, and how choices have real-world consequences. Even in moments when Rosalia made mistakes or shut down emotionally, Victoria remained calm, present, and nonjudgmental.
Their time together has also been filled with meaningful, everyday moments like getting their nails done, working through a driver’s education course at the library, or sharing a joyful day at the Safari Park. During these outings, Rosalia often opened up, sharing her goals, frustrations, and hopes for the future. Whether encouraging her to speak up for herself in small but significant ways—like ordering her own food—or simply offering space to process tough emotions, CASA Victoria has been a steady, grounding presence.
At a recent child and family team (CFT) meeting, Rosalia shared something that deeply moved everyone in the room and captured just how much CASA Victoria’s presence means. When asked if she had anything to say, she took a moment and shared:
“She’s the one person I can call when I’m upset and everyone’s making me feel crazy—and she makes me feel safe and okay again.”
While Rosalia continues to face challenges—processing trauma, rebuilding trust, and striving for stability—she is also growing. She’s begun engaging more in school, reconnecting with family, and expressing interest in activities like soccer. And through it all, CASA Victoria remains by her side, advocating for mental health support, appropriate phone use, family visits, and educational stability.
At the heart of it all, CASA Victoria has helped Rosalia see that she doesn’t have to go through everything alone. That even in the midst of uncertainty, there is someone who shows up, listens, and believes in her potential. CASAs like Victoria don’t just accompany youth on their journeys—they help shape them for the better. And for Rosalia, that has made all the difference.
Name: Victoria A.
County: San Diego
Occupation: HR/Talent Acquisition
Became a CASA in: 2024
Favorite part of being a CASA: “Getting to witness my kiddo’s milestones up close. Her sense of humor and playfulness are wonderful reminders of her resilience and what it’s like to be her age. This inspires me to approach things from her perspective and offer her kindness and guidance. ”
You, too, can make a meaningful difference in the life of a youth like Rosalia. With your steady support and advocacy, a young person facing uncertainty can feel seen, heard, and empowered to grow. Learn more about becoming a CASA volunteer and start making a positive impact today.
*Names and identifying details have been changed to protect confidentiality
