Diane Smyers – Donor Relations Coordinator – This is her story and why we wanted to talk to her. Join us as she tells some stories and gives us her perspective of Foster Care and C.A.S.A.
I bring a unique dynamic to the C.A.S.A. (Court Appointed Special Advocate) team. I’ve been in foster care. I’ve experienced the despair many of our youth face daily. I’ve been a part of the bleak statistics our foster youth encompass.
I’ve also been blessed to have had a CASA appointed to me at a critical time in my life. She (Virginia) made a pivotal, life-changing difference in my life, my self-esteem, and helped me see I was not defined by the labels imposed upon me by a broken system. She was that one consistent person who wasn’t paid to care about me. She was a light in a dark time in my life.
She taught me, generational abuse can stop – by one victim choosing to stand up, use their voice saying, “It ends with me!” She taught me about moving forward and Changing lives-starting with my own. She taught me life skills, reinforced my work ethic, boundaries in any relationship, budgeting, and finding community resources available. Her impact is endless. She was the first adult with whom I felt heard. The lessons Virginia taught over 30 yrs. ago, resonate today. She continues to be a trusted friend today.
It is my goal to recruit and train future CASA’s to change lives. One. Youth. At. A Time.
This is what a C.A.S.A. / G.A.L. does
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EIYBV6p5Kh8
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