Advocate Spotlight: Laurie

I have been a CASA for almost 5 years. In that time, I have been assigned to 3 very different cases with 3 very different outcomes. I have learned a lot from each of my cases – some things carry over from case to case: Like the myriad of acronyms associated with foster care and the education systems; and that our DFPS is over burdened and under staffed; and that CASA’S ideas of best interest of the child are sometimes different from ad litem attorneys’ and CPS workers’.

But my biggest takeaway in my 5 years has been that small kindnesses make a big difference. Mother Theresa said, “We can do no great things, only small things with great love.” Easter cupcakes, pumpkin cookies, perfectly sharpened Valentine’s pencils and Christmas stickers are just small things, but can mean a great deal when given in great love. My advice – visit more often than required, call or ZOOM in between visits, bring Whataburger to school. Just stay connected to your CASA kids how ever you can.

The oldest child on my first case back in 2017 contacted me recently and asked if I could help her get her drivers’ license. I never thought I would hear from any of them again. My heart soared – she loved my pumpkins cookies and mentioned them in her email.

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