I learned about the CASA organization through a friend who had previously volunteered with Galveston County CASA. She knew that I was retiring soon and that I was interested in investing time in a worthwhile cause. After reading up on all the wonderful things that CASA does to advocate for children in the foster care system, I decided to volunteer. In March of 2021, I was sworn in.
I am a native Houstonian and currently live in Taylor Lake Village with my husband, Bobby. As a child, my siblings and I had a rough time because our mom had serious mental illness. Fortunately, our dad was able to take care of us. I look back on those years and see how important it was for us to have our dad there as our ongoing advocate. I believe that one of the most important roles of a CASA volunteer is the consistent support that the advocate provides during a confusing time for a child in foster care.
My advice to a new CASA volunteer is to just jump in and you will gain understanding of how the systems work as you gain experience. The CASA supervisors are extremely supportive, and mine has always been right there when I have questions or need advice on how to handle a situation.
Finding balance during retirement years is important. I enjoy my hobbies, which are typical of retirees (gardening, traveling, playing pickleball, etc.), but also using this time to help children has been very fulfilling. I have a favorite quote from Albert Einstein. “Coincidence is God’s Way of Staying Anonymous”. I’m glad that my friend happened to tell me about the CASA volunteer opportunity when I was ready to retire.