Cathy’s reporting helped her CASA child get the right support.
CASA volunteers take what they learn about a child and present it in a formalized court report. This reporting helps the Judge make the best decisions on the child’s behalf.
For Cathy Dare, it was simply the mention of reporting that helped get her CASA child critical mental health support at a very vulnerable time. Likewise, for Ed Kach. He told his CASA child’s school principal that he may need to report the child’s need for an individual education program (IEP)—a recommendation that seemed to be falling on deaf ears. Both cases were brought to resolution before the respective court dates.
In another case, Cathy reported a parent’s unsafe behavior, which the mother had shared with her in relative confidence. “I like this mom and believe she can turn her life around. I knew that reporting her actions would mean losing her rights for overnight visits,” said Cathy. “I really had to think and pray about reporting this to the court. Then, I was reminded that I’m here for one reason, and one reason only: the children.”
The result was sad but productive, leading to a voluntary relinquishment of parental rights and adoption by caring family members who are providing the children a safe, healthy environment. “Since then, they’ve done well, and I’ve also had the opportunity to boost mom’s confidence. I will continue to advocate for the kids and encourage their mom,” she said.