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  • HOME
  • ABOUT
    • STAFF
    • BOARD
    • BOARD CORNER
    • ANNUAL REPORT
    • COMMITMENT TO RACIAL EQUITY
    • NEWSLETTER
    • VIDEO
    • Employment Opportunities
    • FINANCIALS
  • Donate
    • DONATE ONLINE
    • LET A KID BE A KID
    • SCHOLARSHIP FUND
    • HOLIDAY WISHLISTS
  • VOLUNTEER
  • ENGAGE
    • EVENTS
    • SHOP
    • COMMUNITIES FOR CASA
  • CASA CORNER
  • BLOG
  • VISITATION CENTER
  • CONTINUING EDUCATION
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FROM THE HEART: LEARNING A NEW LANGUAGE

12/28/2021

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My Expectations. When I imagined being a CASA, my dream was to form a meaningful relationship with a child in crisis who needed an encouraging friend. I would be someone who really knew them and be their support during a stressful time. I believed that I could make a difference, even if I didn't understand all aspects of the child welfare system. I would study, take notes, and learn. I would ensure that my child would get everything needed after being removed from the only home they have known. 
 
I had heard that "the system is broken" my whole life. I believed I found the perfect way to be a part of the solution and make a difference from the inside. I imagined deep conversations with my child as I told stories of my own childhood and how I enjoyed outings for ice cream on special days to celebrate. As I went through CASA training, I couldn't wait to meet the child I would get to know and love. I would earn their trust with tender smiles and soft, kind words full of hope.
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The Journey Begins. Then I was assigned my first case. I certainly never expected to be given a sibling group of three special needs, non-verbal children, one of whom we discovered later was nearly deaf. I thought, "Okay, how am I going to have deep conversations with these children and learn how they feel? How can I explain what is going on when they don't have language or cognitive ability to understand the situation?"
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What I had imagined was nowhere close to reality. I began to think of creative ways to spend non-verbal time with the children during our monthly visits. Stickers, paper crafts, picture books, and playing catch with a big bouncy ball took the place of heart-to-heart talks. I discovered that smiles and fist-bumps will transcend language barriers.
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Committed and Caring Adults. Since I could not speak with the children, I talked to their foster mom and other significant adults in the children's lives. This included their DFCS case manager, teachers, behavioral aids, interpreters, occupational and speech therapists, transporters, audiologists, psychologists, doctors, and dentists. Most of these adults will temporarily be in their lives, and some will be more consistent. In short, there are A LOT of new grownups in their lives, and A LOT of big changes since they came into care. I was committed to figuring it all out.
 
Above all, I am grateful for the faithfulness of their foster mother. Taking good care of children with special needs 24/7 would be difficult for anyone, but she is fiercely dedicated to providing stability and consistency. They have developed and grown because of her enduring love and care. I know that sometimes foster children get moved around or even separated from their siblings, causing more trauma. However, "my" kids have been allowed the necessary time to heal and learn. Foster parents like her are the world's true heroes. She has shown me what it really means to love.
 
I  am determined to be consistent in the children's lives. As a CASA, I will have this case as long as they are in foster care. We may not have meaningful talks, but I believe they know I am on their side. And I've not given up on the hope of conversations yet! As they are being taught ASL, I am learning sign language myself. Now, my dreams include giving sign language explanations when they don't understand and, importantly, asking them directly about their needs and hopes. Only God knows what I will do with this new skill. These special children have taught me how to change my expectations when necessary. I have reaped benefits that I couldn't even imagine.
 
I also have deep gratitude for the juvenile court judge in the children's case. He shows patience, compassion, and respect to the people in his courtroom. Even after hundreds of cases, he remembers the humanity of the people before him who are hurting. He rises above the fray to ensure justice for children who can't speak up for themselves. The wisdom and rightness of his decisions impress me. He shows me how powerful humble discernment can be.
 
I'm Still Learning. My case is so complex, and there is heartache in the messiness. While the system isn't perfect, I have hope for my CASA kids. They have a capable, caring team of adults on their side. As a CASA, I am a part of the solution. I advocate for ways that can impact these children's lives for the better. I have learned that being their advocate is the most meaningful relationship I could have, even if we never get to have that heart-to-heart conversation.

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR.

Trish McKay lives in Savannah, GA with her husband and three sons. An English teacher, she loves helping people write good stories. She became a CASA in June of 2020 to help children be able to tell a better story about their own lives.

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FROM  THE  HEART:  A  Loving  Piece  of  the  Puzzle

11/16/2021

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My CASA Journey
​I am incredibly honored to volunteer for an organization which, as demonstrated by impressive data trends, positively impacts the lives of the children we serve who are in foster care due to abuse and neglect.  
 
I have been a CASA volunteer in the Savannah area for four years and have had the opportunity to work on 4 cases. My main focus has been with the Family Treatment Court (FTC) where I have worked with, and creating a trusting bond with, children who have come into care due to their parents’ substance abuse.  Sadly, at times these children are born addicted to their mother’s drug of choice during her pregnancy. Once a parent chooses to participate with FTC, they are required to complete an 18-month program which is very involved and holds the parents accountable for the ultimate goal of full recovery for themselves, the wellbeing of their children and the opportunity for a permanent home for these children with their parents. 
 
I have had the privilege of seeing extreme transformation of these children and their parents.  Watching the family prosper right before my eyes from who they were when their children came into care to how far they have come, making completely different choices, learning how to cope during life’s challenges and staying clean and sober. This is inspiring. I am so grateful to be a positive and loving piece of the puzzle supporting their children as the parents learn how to live a new and healthier lifestyle. My personal hope is the FTC program will end the cycle of substance abuse in these families so their children could become leaders in society. 
 
The Hard Part
Some of the challenges I have faced as a CASA are when a case is closed and I am not able to stay in touch with the children - especially when I have built a strong, trusting relationship to the point they don’t want me to leave during a home visit! Another challenge is hearing of all the children who are in care and yet there is no CASA to serve every one of them and hear their stories. In one especially moving case, I was blessed to advocate for 3 siblings who have been in and out of care for over 4 years. I have finally seen permanency for these children all with the help of a great team!!!! It really takes a village of support to ensure the safety and permanency of children.
 
How Helping Can Help You Too
We could always use more help!!! Becoming a volunteer is a commitment as we strive to be a positive and constant advocate which makes a life changing impact for the children we serve. My parents taught as me as a teenager the importance of volunteering and finding an organization that you are passionate about. I personally love what CASA stands for. I am extremely passionate because, as a volunteer, I have the opportunity to shed a positive light during these dark times in these children’s lives who may not have had a chance if it wasn’t for the CASA program.
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​Outside of being a Savannah CASA volunteer, Realtor™ Kelly Kommel specializes in luxury condominiums, working with new construction and custom home builders, destination homes, first time home buyers and investors alike. Kelly attributes her extensive marketing knowledge and strong negotiation skills to her ability to match product with client quickly and efficiently. Having lived in the south for over 5 years, Kelly is originally from the Chicago suburb of Schaumburg, Illinois. She resided in Las Vegas for 20 years and lived on the island of St Maarten in 2015. Kelly has been a contributing member of several successful executive sales teams involving prestigious real estate projects in Las Vegas and Savannah, Georgia. Currently, she resides in Greenville, SC as a lovely wife and mother. We are so excited to have her on our team!
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From  the  Heart:  My  Journey  With  CASA

10/18/2021

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The Journey
My journey with CASA began in 2007 shortly after I received my degree in Social Work. Next to raising my children, graduating from college as a non-traditional student was one of my greatest accomplishments and I was soon hired as a Case Manager for the Department of Family and Children Services (DFCS) in North Georgia.  I quickly found my passion with working in foster care and adoptions. I learned the rewards of working with foster families, relatives and caring friends who provide safety and stability to a child during difficult circumstances.  My experience taught me that the relationship between a CASA volunteer and a child suffering from trauma was part of a safe, stable healing process as the child will feel secure knowing that someone cares and “has their back.” 

When I relocated to the Savannah area a few years ago, there was no doubt in my mind that I would continue this journey as a CASA volunteer.  I knew the complex emotional experiences that I was getting into. I knew policy and the court system. Yet, I felt drawn to support a child, especially an older child or teenager, in care.  I signed up to be a CASA and after many weeks of classroom and courtroom trainings, I was ready.  Swear-in day was pre-Covid, so many families were in the courtroom taking part in the happy occasion. My transition from working with CASA volunteers as a DFCS staff, to becoming a CASA volunteer myself was finally here.  

I looked up after signing my order in the courtroom and there was my Coordinator approaching me with a case.  A newborn had just entered foster care. One could only imagine the look on my face as I thought about the teenager who would be missing out on my presence in their life. Even though, I knew my purpose was to advocate for all children regardless of age, race or culture.  I accepted the case and 3 plus years later, a sibling was added to the case. Today, the children are together in a safe, stable and loving home awaiting adoption. 

In May 2021, I was honored to transition from Volunteer Advocate to staff with Savannah CASA.  Recently, I discussed my experience of getting a case that I didn’t expect with a new volunteer. I talked about the privilege of watching not one, but two newborn siblings, both with special needs, multiple health problems and developmental issues, grow and develop into healthy toddlers as a result of the stability, safety and love received from their caregivers and community. I am enlightened by the joy I hear in the voices of the relatives and foster parents who want nothing more than to talk about the children’s progress, the familial bonds and how much their life has changed for the better.  Rarely, do I hear about the difficult times, hard moments, numerous doctor’s appointments and sleepless nights. The emotional bonding that resulted keeping the siblings together outweighed these many challenges. 
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What I Have Learned
Over the years, I have worked with numerous CASA volunteers on difficult cases of abuse and neglect. With the countless hours in the courtroom, writing reports, tracking down case workers, counselors, teachers, and providers, while being an emotional support for children who are traumatized and marginalized, I realize that CASA volunteers are some of the most selfless, dedicated and compassionate people I know. There are days of sadness, frustration and disappointment. However, I believe that many, like myself, would not change the experience of being a Court Appointed Child Advocate for anything. Without my journey, I would not have crossed paths with individuals from widely diverse backgrounds who have stepped forward to help a child.  I would not have had the privilege of, first becoming a CASA volunteer and then, expanding my opportunity to contribute by joining this amazing team.
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Karen Allen has a Bachelors in Social Work and is working on her Masters in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. She has over 14 years in Social Services. Currently, she is an Advocacy Coordinator for Savannah CASA where she began as a CASA volunteer over 3 years ago. She has a wealth of knowledge and experience. Karen is dedicated to the best interest of the children that she serves and is a very valuable asset to our organization. She relocated to the Savannah area 3.5 years ago with her husband and loves spending time outdoors with friends, family, and her 4 granddaughters.
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30  Years  Of  ADVOCACY

9/10/2021

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PictureThe Honorable John Beam
Our History
In 1976, Superior Court Judge David Soukup of Seattle, Washington, observed a recurring problem in the courtroom. He recognized that there was too little information available to base life-changing decisions about the safety, permanency and well-being of children. To address this problem, he raised funds to recruit and train community volunteers to speak on behalf of children in court. In 1977, a CASA pilot program was formed based on Judge Soukup’s idea. In 1982, the National CASA/GAL Association for Children was established to direct CASA’s emerging national presence. CASA reached Georgia in 1988, when Georgia CASA began and established two pilot programs.

It didn’t take long for the Chatham County’s Juvenile Court Judge, The Honorable John Beam, to realize that our community would greatly benefit from this program. Judge Beam wasted no time in establishing a committee and starting Savannah/Chatham County CASA.

In 1991, Savannah/Chatham CASA was formed. In 1993, it officially became its own 501(c)3 and soon after hired its first official executive director, Rebecca Zarada (now Lentz). Rebecca, her six successors, and the many staff members worked tirelessly to ensure the program had the support and investment necessary to train community volunteers to advocate for the children who experienced abuse and neglect in our community. Since 1991, more than 2,000 community volunteers have advocated for the best interests of our community’s children.

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Celebrating 30 Years
In honor of our anniversary, we sought to identify 10 individuals who contributed to the success of the organization throughout the last 30 years. This was no easy task. I’ve spent the last month talking to past staff, board members, and volunteers to select the past board members that not only contributed their time, talent, and resources but also those who lead the organization during some of our most challenging times. We are excited to honor these 10 individuals on Thursday, October 21st at the Ships of the Sea Maritime Museum. Our selected honorees contributed to the growth and success of Savannah CASA.

However, there are so many more who served as board members, CASA volunteers, and staff that also deserve recognition. We are working hard to compile that list and invite each and every one of them to our celebration so that we may honor them as well. Unfortunately, access to older files are limited. We need help to ensure all involved in the history of our organization are present at our event. Please reach out to me at kate@savannahcasa.org if you have current contact information of any past board members, staff, or supporters.
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Last but not certainly not least, Savannah CASA would not exist without our volunteers. They are at the heart of our mission. This is why in addition to our anniversary celebration, we will host a special breakfast celebration focused solely on their contributions on Tuesday, November 2nd. This event will be closed to the public and free for all current CASA volunteers and their guests.  We are excited to announce that Judge LeRoy Burke will be our keynote speaker at our breakfast. ​

Click here for 30th Anniversary Tickets
Click here for The Annual Meeting RSVP

​ABOUT THE AUTHOR - Kate  Blair

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Kate Blair is the Executive Director of Savannah CASA. Before joining the team in 2018, she served as the Development and Communications Director for Step Up Savannah. She has a Bachelors in Communications. Originally from the suburbs of Cleveland, Ohio, Kate and her husband, Andy, made Savannah their home in 2006. They are proud parents to non-twin 13 year olds, Tek and Firdawek, and their furry son, Brutus. The Blairs love to travel together and have incredibly competitive games of Uno. Kate wins the most. She will fight you if you say otherwise. ;) 
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From  The  Heart: A  Young  Professional  is  Inspired  by  the  Pros

8/16/2021

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When Opportunity Knocks... 
This summer, I had the opportunity to take part in the Shepherd Internship program, which is designed to pair college students with non-profit organizations to educate them as to the complexities of poverty.  In my initial interviews to determine my placement, I expressed that I wanted to be doing something with children, as I have always felt most fulfilled when I am helping to better their lives. When I learned that I was matched with CASA, I was elated. With just a minimal understanding of what a CASA was, I knew that my summer was going to be special.  

Through friends and colleagues, I learned that CASA staff are leaders in their community with an intrinsic motivation to aid and support children living in foster care.  I found this mission honorable and inspiring and felt privileged to have this chance.  Even from miles away on our Zoom calls, I was inspired by those at Savannah, CASA. Their passion for, and commitment to, children radiated through the computer screen. They speak with concern and act with care.  

Advocacy Outside of the Courtroom 
From my very first day, CASA staff demonstrated that advocating for a child is multi-faceted.  While advocacy is central to the work, advocating for children is not just speaking on their behalf in a courtroom - there are so many more ways to support a child in foster care.  For example, the mega fundraiser, “Dancing with Savannah Stars” which assured that there are resources to do the work.  Likewise, agency-wide discussions and pandemic-era Zoom “coffee hours” fostered an environment where individuals were encouraged to learn from each other’s personal and professional perspectives.  In addition, CASA has an extremely vibrant social media presence which connects the wider community to inspire others to include them in CASA’s mission. 

An Unforgettable Experience
There are many direct and indirect service components to non-profit work and, each day, colleagues at Savannah CASA join together to achieve support and stability for the children.  As a young professional, I am thankful for my summer’s opportunity to learn from these inspiring - (and inspired!) – colleagues.  I will continue to use their lessons in my own life’s work.  I will never forget this experience as my heart is forever touched by these summer colleagues who devote talent and time to the success of children in foster care.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR - Alaina Ratanapool

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Alaina Ratanapool is from Centre College in Danville, Kentucky, where she is majoring in English and Education. Serving children has been a life-long passion for her and she is absolutely thrilled to be working with Savannah CASA. Fun Fact: Alaina used to dress up as the Disney princess Moana and perform at children’s birthday parties.
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FROM THE HEART: The  Privilege  of  Guiding  Future  Advocates  for  a  Child

7/12/2021

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My Honor to Train 126 CASAs…and counting...
Being the Lead Facilitator for the training of future CASA Volunteer Advocates is one of the biggest honors of my life. In 2019, I can recall going through the class myself as a participant. It was an intense experience – truly – and that is by design. To be a CASA, participants must complete a minimum of six hours per week of course material and homework over six weeks. In addition, CASAs-in-training are required to observe ten hours of juvenile court proceedings and write two mock court reports. To the surprise of many, the commitment and attention required is like taking on a part time job! 
 
Over the past two years, I’ve facilitated seven of these training classes and have watched with pride as 126 new CASAs were now ready to serve Savannah/Chatham County’s children in foster care. This is a communal accomplishment as each session is facilitated by not only me, but also by our dedicated and expert Advocacy Coordinators.  I hold deep admiration for each and every community volunteer who sets so much time aside from their busy lives to make a difference in the life of a child with their newly acquired skills. Knowing that this is just the beginning of their journey with CASA makes it all the more special.
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Eric at training with CASA volunteer and staff
Shutdown! We Switch to Online 
Like everyone else, the pandemic drove us out of our brick and mortar classrooms and into the virtual world.  For the last year, I’ve facilitated our CASA Pre-Service Training with a completely new way of learning core content and interacting as a group. Initially, this was a challenging and confusing endeavor, but ultimately, it proved to be just the kind of engaging social interaction many of us were needing at the time.  Similar to me, many of the trainees were working from home. We looked forward to our time together on Zoom each week. 
 
The online training provided the flexibility to help us recruit volunteers who may not have otherwise been able to participate due to their work schedules, lack of child care, health concerns, etc.  Checking in with each other in “class” and interacting over the Internet for homework helped us maintain our sense of belonging to a community.  In fact, our very first self-proclaimed “COVID Class” created a private group on Facebook to stay connected!
 
My story wouldn’t be complete if I didn’t mention that switching to online training did block some older, deeply experienced participants.  With regret, I recall a woman with a Ph.D. in Education coupled with decades of experience working in the NYC school system and now newly retired to Savannah.  She felt uncomfortable with the online process and, sadly, we lost her contribution as a future CASA. 
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Last in-person swear-in before COVID-19
No Small Gesture – To Change a Child’s Story
No two CASA volunteers are the same and, as a result, each training class is a unique mixture of personalities, as well. In each of our classes, 15 to 20 adults come together and engage in very introspective work which results in fresh perspectives and discussions. Our volunteers come from all walks of life; doctors, dock workers, educators, retired military, students, stay-at-home parents, etc. each bringing to our discussion their own lived experiences.  And each share a deep motivation to help a vulnerable child.
 
For me, CASA is all about making a connection with the child and respecting the humanity of the families that we serve. CASA volunteers bring this sense of community and connectedness into the courtroom and throughout the child’s life in foster care with both small gestures of kindness and notable actions of advocacy.  Our CASA Volunteers are on-hand to positively change a child’s story.  As a CASA staff who helps launch their volunteer work, I am deeply honored to contribute to their success.  ​

ABOUT THE AUTHOR - ERIC  HORNFELD

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​Eric Hornfeld joined the CASA team in February of 2019 and currently serves as the Pre-Service Training Facilitator. In this role, he facilitates all pre-service training for new CASA volunteers. Eric settled into Savannah in 2017 after moving from his home state of Florida. Eric is a proud cat dad to two furballs, Pepsi & Peaches, and husband to Ryan who teaches Chemistry at GS-Armstrong. When not working with our CASA-Volunteers-In-Training, Eric enjoys tending to his office plants, practicing mindfulness, and going camping. Eric graduated from Florida State University with a degree in Sociology. Currently, he is pursuing a master's degree in Leadership from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University where he also works. 
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From  the  Heart: Why  I  Chose  to  Work  with  CASA

6/8/2021

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Decisions, Decisions, Decisions. My choice to join the CASA team last November was much like many decisions in my adult life - overanalyzed but well calculated. Up until this point in my career, I have always worked in healthcare as a design and marketing professional. When thinking about why this position as CASA’s Communications and Development Manager was right for me, I had to think outside of my regular 9 to 5 experiences.
Connecting the Dots. For most of my years in Savannah, I have spent a great deal of my time helping women and children in the community. As a former teen mom, I have always had a passion for helping other women in the ways that so many caring souls helped me as a young mother. From support groups to Christmas assistance, it gives me great joy to spread love to families that face unimaginable challenges.

When choosing a new job, I look for opportunities to help the community in some way. Even with my positions in healthcare, these organizations put the patients at the center of their work. It is very important to me that my life’s work impacts others in a positive way. So, when weighing the pros and cons for CASA, the personal pros were obvious to me.

The impact that Savannah CASA has in the lives of children is truly incredible. Importantly, the work complements what I have been doing in my personal life to help single parent households. For over a decade, I have worked to ensure that families in our community have the support and resources in order to thrive. Advocating for these needs is something that has always come naturally to me. I have never needed a paycheck to fuel my work and I have been blessed with full-time jobs that allowed me to do this work.
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Jennifer with her son, Jalin, at the park.
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Jennifer with the Savannah CASA team (left) and with single moms at a Savannah Bananas game (right).
This New Journey. I am still processing the experience of shifting my full-time focus to something closer to my after-hours passion of helping families in need.  Though it has not been the easiest shift due to the pandemic and various learning curves, I have been able to gain a wealth of knowledge. Getting to know co-workers and a new work culture over Zoom plus managing CASA’s largest fundraiser from home has been a lot to process. ​Whether on Zoom or in person, the zeal that our team has for child advocacy is undeniable. I am extremely grateful to have the opportunity to use my years of design and marketing experience to highlight the great work that Savannah CASA does every day in the lives of children and families. Our team is so passionate and their enthusiasm cultivates a culture that is refreshing for me. 

​Beyond the culture, my new position gives me fulfillment on so many levels outside of my professional goals. It makes me happy to know that our collective efforts are really making a difference in the world and in the lives of children. We all have a purpose here on earth and being able to see that purpose in action is one of life’s greatest gifts. I am glad that I chose CASA and I hope that my work will help us impact as many lives as possible.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR - Jennifer  T.  GRaham

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​Jennifer joined the CASA Team in November 2020 as the Communications and Development Manager. With the vision to enhance the lives of single mothers and their children, she founded a non-profit to help single mothers in 2010. Currently, she sits on the Advisory Boards of Molly's Bridge for single mothers and iVolunteer International. Jennifer has a BFA in Graphic Design from Savannah College of Art and Design and a MBA in Marketing from Saint Leo University. Beyond her drive for helping others, she also has a passion for brand development and assists businesses with their brands through her virtual design company. When she is not working, she enjoys time with her 19-year old son, Jalin, and her fur babies, Bella Grace and Bruno Mars as well as her extended family and friends.  
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From the Heart: Acknowledging the Loss of First Families

5/13/2021

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Acknowledging the Loss of First Families

Mother’s Day was this past Sunday. My boys were incredibly sweet to me, of course. They bought me a gift and went out of their way to make sure I didn’t have any work around the house. I felt deeply loved. But despite the joy of the day, each year I carry a profound loss within me. It’s not my own loss but the loss experienced by my sons and their first mothers. I think writer and adoptive parent, Jody Landers, captures it best, “A child born to another woman calls me mom. The depth of the tragedy and the magnitude of the privilege are not lost on me.” When this holiday comes around, I find myself reflecting on the loss carried by those I love so deeply. 

Complicated Reasons for Loss. As an adoptive family, we are often asked about our sons’ adoption stories. We won’t share those with anyone as they are theirs alone to share. However, like all adoptions, theirs was a result of loss - the loss of family, connection, and history. All adoption stories are complicated and as unique as the people involved. Adoptions can be the result of death, strained relationships, generational trauma, substance use disorder, mental illness and, sadly, they may result from broken government systems, trafficking, racism, and poverty. One thing I know, adoption should always be the last option. Every child should be given every chance to be raised by their biological family.

When people talk about adoption, the adoptive parents are typically celebrated.  We say things like, “Aren’t they wonderful? What a beautiful gift they gave to those children!” This comes from a good place, of course, but it misses a core truth that the child and their first family have experienced profound loss.  In fact, society often speaks poorly of first families – making generalized assumptions about poor choices they might have made that resulted in their children entering the child welfare systems.  But as our CASA volunteers and staff can attest – it is never as black and white as that. Each family’s story is complicated and rooted in trauma. In our experience, parents love their children and do not want to cause harm to them.
Listen to Their Voices.  As a society, we need to better center the stories of those who experience loss in adoption – the first families and our children. At Savannah CASA, we are grateful to foster and adoptive families as it is they who provide loving and safe homes for our children during times of trauma.  Yet, as an adoptive mother, I’ve noticed that it is often only our voices that are heard. I believe it is far more important that first families and our children’s voices are those we listen to first.

My sons not only carry the first names given to them by their mothers, but they carry their mothers in their hearts.  My sons are not fully mine as they belong just as much to the people who loved them first. I share their growth, their victories, and their hurt with those who gave them life. My heart is broken over what their parents lost and I will not forget the “magnitude of the privilege” that I have in raising our two exceptional sons.

Honoring First Families. On this Mother’s Day and many more to come, I will continue to honor my sons’ mothers and the countless other mothers who lost the opportunity to share the joys and heartbreaks with their children. I ask you to join with our CASA volunteers as they center the child’s voice and support their family’s progress towards reunification. That is our goal – hope and healing. As a society, let’s work to reform the child welfare system so that only those who have no other option are adopted.  Let’s elevate the voices of adoptees and first families and incorporate their experiences and voices into the policies.  Let’s honor these families by not forgetting their loss.   

Want to hear more from adoptees? Listen to the The Adoptee Next Door by transracial adoptee, Angela Tucker. 
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Kate with her sons Firdawek (left) and Tek (right) Shared with their permission.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR - Kate  Blair

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Kate Blair is the Executive Director of Savannah CASA. Before joining the team in 2018, she served as the Development and Communications Director for Step Up Savannah. She has a Bachelors in Communications. Originally from the suburbs of Cleveland, Ohio, Kate and her husband, Andy, made Savannah their home in 2006. They are proud parents to non-twin 13 year olds, Tek and Firdawek, and their furry son, Brutus. The Blairs love to travel together and have incredibly competitive games of Uno. Kate wins the most. She will fight you if you say otherwise. ;) 
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From the heart - Who Is the Typical CASA Volunteer?

4/22/2021

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Who Is the Typical CASA Volunteer?

For most of a year, I’ve settled into a niche as an Interviewer for CASA.  Having spoken with 70+ volunteer applicants to date, I enter into each (Zoom) interview with a mixture of eagerness and curiosity. Who will I meet? What life journey has led a person to this moment?  The profiles that emerge of a CASA applicant have both surprised and delighted me. I am aware that my views reflect my own journey. With this caveat, I believe I’ve discerned “patterns” that may answer the question, who is the typical volunteer?

To be a CASA Volunteer, this special individual will have a blend of traits. On one hand, the applicant will display an aptitude (or tolerance!) to do research and to transform data into monthly reporting and, eventually, a document to be reviewed by a judge. They will act as an Advocate, one who tracks school progress, healthcare and multiple social services to assure that these align for the child’s best interest. On the other hand, this same person will speak from a reservoir of emotional intelligence. They will have the “heart” to be a supportive presence for a child during highs and lows of family disruption and show up, when needed, with a kind word. 

To illustrate my point, during the first weeks of January, CASA staff were preparing for the initial volunteer training of the year. Following a pause for the holidays, my colleague, Teresa, and I were working full-steam ahead, juggling a flurry of applications to fill up the virtual classroom. Teresa hit the phones and coordinated the interview schedules. She then stepped back, I stepped forward, ready to log in and meet whoever shows up.  This snapshot in time reinforced my growing perception of patterns – that the volunteer applicant will certainly display “heart” and, in addition, will likely have travelled along one of these life journeys. As I log in, who will I meet? 

The Woman/Man in Uniform: As Zoom opens up, I immediately recognize the no-nonsense demeanor of the current (or newly retired) military staff. They are direct in speech, and answer the standard CASA interview questions with a clear-eyed approach as how to get a task done. They have moved around a lot but expect to be in Savannah “for a while”. Elevated above all, however, is a deep desire to connect with, and contribute to, their new community.

The Young Adult:  This applicant always surprises me.  The Young Adult is not much passed their 21st birthday, but has “been waiting all my life” for the opportunity to be a CASA. This young person readily expresses views on social justice, likely comes from a large family and speaks warmly about caring for, and supporting, another. They possess a mature outlook on life that is remarkably atypical for one so young.

The Educator: Our Educator is an uber-skilled professional with multiple layers of knowledge on child development and family dynamics. In addition, the years of instruction have trained them to be deft coach, able to nudge two steps forward after someone falls one step back during hard learning processes for both children and adults alike. The Educator is a devoted believer that to enhance any community, all children must have a shot to reach their potential.    

The Survivor: To this day, I am astonished at the CASA applicant who has passed through early traumatic experiences to emerge with almost supernatural strength and insight. During our discussion, the Survivor will repeatedly reference their process of recovery from trauma and how horrid experiences led to crucial character-building. Reflecting back in time, the Survivor is resolute that they don’t want a child to ever be alone, without a voice, during a time of fear and disorientation.

The Community Builder:  At first, this applicant appears demure. They may work in an office, run a small business or be a homebody with grown children. Their life is not quiet, yet the Community Builder describes feeling compelled “to move heaven and earth” for a vulnerable child. They are almost gleeful that, after years of hoping to be a CASA, a moment in their busy life has finally arrived. Motivation is framed as a big picture – being a CASA helps build our beloved community by raising up the most vulnerable among us.
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Is There a Typical CASA volunteer? 
To my surprise, yes and no. Yes, because each person, without exception, speaks with “heart”. This singular trait doesn’t vary and connects all of us at CASA with a shared motivation to help a vulnerable child. Broadly speaking, there are also “patterns” of backgrounds. If the CASA Woman in Uniform met the CASA Survivor on River Street, would they recognize each other?  Probably not. But if they learn that they are both CASAs, a world of commonality opens up. This moment begins to answer, who is the “typical” volunteer? They are our fellow neighbor, whose life journey compels them to lend a hand, and heart, to a child in foster care.  
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ABOUT THE AUTHOR - HOLLYN GREEN

In February 2020, Hollyn joined CASA as Community Engagement Coordinator via AmeriCorps VISTA (Volunteers in Service to America).  Her primary responsibilities include interviewing CASA applicants plus assorted lend-a-hand-where-needed Special Projects.  Following an overseas career as an NGO Administrator for AFSC and as a Foreign Service Officer with the Department of State, Hollyn and her husband, Mainus Sultan, came to Savannah where their daughter, Kajori, resides.  Hollyn has a B.S./Agriculture, M.S./Public Health and ED. D in Adult Education.  On any given afternoon, she will likely be found tending her beloved garden.    ​
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From the heart - An  unexpected  gift

3/15/2021

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An Unexpected gift for a casa intern

I began my internship with Savannah CASA the first week of January.   At the time, I was completely and utterly unsure of the field I was entering as an intern.  I did not have much knowledge of what CASA did for the community, nor of the myriad of situations that a foster child may experience.  I did, though, have a lot of compassion to those in need.  I initially thought that my experiences, volunteer hours, and educational training would be sufficient to accomplish my goals at CASA.  I was ready to dedicate myself to hard work and long hours of helping others cope with their personal situations.  I believed that the men, women, and children involved in the different specialties of CASA would value me due to my life’s journey.  I never expected I would need them too.

The Unfolding Lesson
During my second week of interning, I attended the Family Treatment Court (FTC).  FTC is a parental skills and rehabilitation program for young parents whose children entered the foster care system due to their substance use disorder.  When I observed FTC for the first time, I marveled at how each parent was open and vulnerable.  I felt proud of them for their struggle to improve their lives.  I cried “happy tears” to see how hard they worked to get their lives under control to be reunited with their children. 

I know that personal biases have blocked my understanding of substance use due to growing up in a home where my mom was addicted to drugs.  For years, I’ve known I was affected.  Due to our tumultuous relationship, I know that my heart was often closed to expressing any form of vulnerability.  Sitting in FTC and admiring the young parents’ efforts to correct their behavior, I wondered to myself why in the last fifteen years did I never try to understand my mother’s own struggles.   As a CASA Intern, a wife, and as a mother myself, I love praising the FTC parents for their accomplishments, no matter how small of a step they achieve.  My heart was warmed to see them smile.  And I was struck with a realization - if I could encourage strangers to keep moving forward with their lives, why couldn’t I do the same for my own mother?

And This I Learned...
After a month at CASA, I reached out to my mom.  I felt odd abandoning my hiding place of comfort and safety, but I wanted to tell my mom that she deserved to be forgiven and that I was very sorry it took me so long.  My CASA experience helped me see a personal struggle that I had inside but didn’t realize was even there.  Throughout my adult life, I was looking for something that would grant me satisfaction and joy, and most of all give me a sense of purpose.  CASA helped me open up.  The men, women, and children CASA serves deserve applause for their efforts and determination.  Despite the difficult struggles with their destructive substance use, they strive to persevere, to not give up, and most importantly to decide that their lives can be meaningful again.  CASA helps change lives.  I have found that helping other people is one way to be truly happy.  I love CASA because positive things happen all the time, even unexpectedly. 

Learn more about how to talk about substance use disorder.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR - TIFFANY STACY

Tiffany Stacy is an intern for Savannah/Chatham CASA, and is a Georgia native from Columbus. She is an Army spouse and is currently attending Troy University online pursing a BS in Social Work and is set to graduate this Spring. Tiffany plans to pursue an Advanced-Standing and Accelerated Master of Social Work at Louisiana State University this Fall. She and her husband, Nick, are parents of two rambunctious children, Talia and Mason, and have three fur-babies, Beau, Kermie, and Nana. 
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