Every child’s path through the foster care system is different—some journeys are brief, while others take unexpected turns. Regardless of where a child is in their case, one thing remains constant: the need for a consistent, caring adult who shows up just for them. Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASAs) play an essential role at every stage of a case, not just during challenges, but also in the quieter moments when things seem to be going well. Sometimes, those moments matter most. A CASA’s presence can mean the difference between an overlooked concern and a life-changing intervention. Their steady advocacy ensures that a child’s voice is heard, their safety is prioritized, and their well-being is never taken for granted. CASA Nicole’s story is a powerful reminder of why this commitment matters from the very first meeting to the final hearing—and beyond.
After completing her training and being officially sworn in, CASA Nicole was ready to begin her advocacy journey. When she was matched with siblings Darius* and Mae*, she was surprised to learn their case was already nearing closure. At first, she confided in her advocacy supervisor: Why do these kids need a CASA? What seemed like a happy ending on paper, however, carried deeper concerns. The children’s attorney had raised a quiet but serious worry about the family’s long-term stability and a sense that someone needed to stay closely connected to the family throughout. That someone would be CASA Nicole.
Darius and Mae entered foster care due to domestic violence and physical abuse against Mae by their mother’s boyfriend. Though initially unsure about the role she’d play, CASA Nicole jumped right in, meeting with the children, building relationships with their mother, attorney, and social worker. After her very first visit, she was all in: “I just wanted to help them and support their mom,” she shared. However, even under the best circumstances, any case can still unravel and become convoluted. On one visit near the final court hearing, CASA Nicole dropped the children off at their mother’s apartment and sensed something was off. The usually warm and open mom barely opened the door and quickly ushered the children inside without a word. Soon after, the mother moved and stopped returning CASA Nicole’s calls. CASA Nicole voiced her concerns immediately. Her instincts proved correct. It then became clear that circumstances in the home had changed, and the children no longer felt safe. The judge halted the case closure. Instead, Darius and Mae were removed from their mother’s care and placed with a family member.
What began as a short-term case quickly evolved into an unexpected journey. But CASA Nicole didn’t hesitate. She began building trust with the children’s family member, resumed consistent visits, and doubled down on her mission to ensure Darius and Mae felt supported and safe. During a recent visit, she asked the siblings how they felt about their new living environment. They both smiled and said they felt good. It was a small but powerful confirmation that, despite all the twists and turns, they were now in a more stable home—and beginning to regain a sense of normalcy.
We’re proud to celebrate CASA Nicole as our CASA of the Month—a volunteer who leaned into her role with compassion and persistence, even when the path forward was unclear. She reminds us that every case needs a steady, caring presence—and sometimes, especially when everything looks fine on the surface.
Name: Nicole B.
County: San Diego
Occupation: Homemaker
Became a CASA in: 2024
Favorite part of being a CASA: “Spending time with my case children. They are beautiful little human beings whose laughter fills my heart with joy and purpose. I am so blessed to have the opportunity to be a person in their lives that they can always count on.”
You, too, can make a significant difference in the lives of youth in foster care. Your support and advocacy can be a steady light in the darkness for young siblings like Darius and Mae. Learn more about becoming a CASA volunteer and start making a positive impact today. *Names and identifying details have been changed to protect confidentiality
