1. How long have you been a CASA volunteer?
I started my CASA training in September 2022 but was unable to really start with my case until just before the holidays.
2. What brought you to apply to become a CASA volunteer?
I identified being a CASA as something I should look into some years ago. Unfortunately, this had to wait as I felt that I had my hands full finishing my nursing career at IU Health. Travels and of course, COVID delayed my involvement. I found the training a bit overwhelming, but I feel that doing the job is not as much. With my nursing background in substance abuse and psych, I feel well-prepared to deal with the challenges of these families.
(*Please note, you do not need a professional background to become a CASA. The CASA staff provides thorough training and continuous support for all volunteers.)
3. Besides being a CASA volunteer, what do you like to do in your spare time?
As a retired empty-nester, I enjoy planning trips, traveling, gardening, housework, and self-care. I enjoy learning new ways to view and live life. I am currently learning about the ancient Greek philosophies and how many belief systems and psychological ideas are tied to these early writings.
4. What do you love the most about being a CASA?
I love being with the kids. They are the focus of our mission as CASAs and are our future. Caring for them now could possibly pay off big time.
5. What’s a hidden talent or unusual fact that most people don’t know about you?
I have no hidden talents, but, as a person of color, I have a strong desire to see racial reconciliation in our society. I am also motivated to honor and pay tribute to those who can before me, who lifted me up, enabling me to survive and thrive. I bring this desire and motivation to my CASA kids. They’ve been dealt a hand that they had no part in, but with our help, they can survive and overcome the events that brought them to us.
Click HERE to learn more about becoming a CASA volunteer.