When children enter foster care, they often face a world of unfamiliar faces, constant changes, and uncertainty about who they can trust. In the midst of that upheaval, a Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) can be the steady hand and familiar voice that helps a child feel seen, safe, and supported. CASAs walk alongside children through some of the most challenging moments of their young lives, listening when others rush, showing up when others can’t, and speaking up when a child’s needs risk being overlooked. With compassion, persistence, and grace, CASA Kailie has shown what it means to stand by a child through every challenge, offering guidance and hope to Mary*, a courageous young girl navigating the complexities of foster care.
CASA Kailie was appointed to Mary’s case in early 2022, shortly after Mary entered foster care at ten years old. Having already experienced significant loss and trauma, Mary was deeply wary of adults. She would often run and hide at the sound of a knock on the door. But from their very first meeting, Mary sensed that CASA Kailie was different. Through patient, gentle connection and joyful outings, spending sunny afternoons at the park, biking by the bay, and sharing laughter at local ballgames, CASA Kailie began to earn Mary’s trust. Before long, social workers noticed how safe and grounded Mary felt in CASA Kailie’s presence, often inviting her to join their visits to help create calm and connection. CASA Kailie became a bridge of trust, someone Mary could rely on in a world that kept changing around her.
Over the years, CASA Kailie’s advocacy has been a guiding force. When caseworkers and attorneys all changed in late 2024, CASA Kailie was the only consistent professional who truly knew Mary and her caregiver. She collaborated closely with the new team, offering insight and perspective grounded in her deep understanding of Mary’s history and needs. CASA Kailie supported the goal of adoption, but she also thoughtfully advocated for additional therapeutic and educational supports to ensure stability before permanency.
In 2025, as Mary’s mental health needs became more complex, CASA Kailie was invited to share her perspective directly with the court. True to her role, she spoke with compassion and honesty, balancing hope for Mary’s future with a clear-eyed understanding of what she needed to thrive. Even when plans shifted unexpectedly and Mary faced yet another placement change, CASA Kailie never wavered. She was at Mary’s side within hours, visiting her in her new emergency placement and reminding her that she wasn’t alone.
Now a teen , Mary continues to face challenges, but she still finds reasons to smile, singing along to pop songs in the car, teasing her siblings with a quick wit, and dreaming of the day she’ll have a place to call home for good. Through every transition, CASA Kailie has remained a steady presence and a powerful advocate, ensuring that Mary’s voice is heard and her well-being always comes first.
CASA Kailie’s journey with Mary is a reminder of what a CASA can mean in a child’s life: not just an advocate, but a trusted adult who stays. Her compassion, objectivity, and perseverance have made an extraordinary difference for one remarkable young girl and exemplify the heart of our CASA volunteers.
Name: Kailie S.
County: San Diego
Occupation: Self-employed freelance marketer
Became a CASA in: 2022
Favorite part of being a CASA: “The impact that I have had on my child. Being there for her and supporting her during difficult times has meant the world to me. This past year has been especially difficult for her, so being a constant presence in her life and seeing how much she appreciates that has been so special. I knew how special being a CASA was, but this past year has shown me how much what we do really matters to these kids.”
You, too, can make a meaningful difference in the lives of youth like Mary. 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.
