For 17-year-old Lana*, her dog, Tilly, has always been more than a pet. Through years of instability, being adopted, returning to foster care, and enduring multiple placements, Tilly has been her steady source of love and comfort. When Lana was recently removed from her caregiver’s home and placed in an unsafe emergency setting, she faced losing not just another placement but the one constant in her life, Tilly. As her advocate, CASA Justine made the necessary decision to alert Lana’s social worker, ensuring her safety first, even though it meant separating her from her beloved dog.
Lana’s devastation was immediate. Understanding this, CASA Justine didn’t pull away; she leaned in. She worked tirelessly with her Voices for Children advocacy supervisor, Lana’s social worker, and attorney to find a safe solution for Tilly to alleviate Lana’s fears. Through her persistence, Tilly was temporarily boarded rather than surrendered to a shelter, and CASA Justine personally arranged visits so Lana could continue seeing her dog. These reunions, filled with joy and familiarity, gave Lana something to look forward to amid uncertainty. CASA Justine didn’t stop there; she continued advocating until a colleague of Lana’s attorney agreed to foster Tilly until Lana turns 18, guaranteeing their eventual reunion.
Because of CASA Justine’s unwavering commitment, Lana was removed from an unsafe environment, and her treasured bond with Tilly remains intact. Her advocacy ensured not only physical safety for Lana but emotional stability and support as well, a reminder that sometimes, the most powerful form of advocacy is helping a young person hold onto the one thing that makes them feel whole.
Name: Justine T.
County: San Diego
Occupation: Carpenter and artist
Became a CASA in: 2024
Favorite quote: My favorite inspirational quote is the Japanese proverb “nanakorobi yaoki” or “fall down seven times, stand up eight.” It means to be persistent in the face of adversity and that the only way to fail is stop trying. That’s the kind of resilience I see in my case youth, every day.”
You, too, can make a meaningful difference in the lives of youth like Lana. With your steady support and advocacy, a young person facing uncertainty can feel seen, heard, and supported. Learn more about becoming a CASA volunteer and start making a positive impact today.
*Names and identifying details have been changed to protect confidentiality
