It is my hope that we will be able to engage government, business, non-profit, philanthropy, and citizens alike in the evolving conversations about how we help children, families, and communities build a stronger network of support and protection for all of our children. I hope that together we will be able to move to a place where our children and their parents’ voices become the most trusted indicator and validation of our collective work efforts.

I serve National CASA/GAL because I care about children and the world where my grandchildren will live. The organization helps children in foster care at a time when they need support, stability and a sense of their own worth by providing judges with a perspective of what will shape a better future for them.

At this time in my life, I have an intrinsic desire to “‘pay it forward.” This is essential fuel for my spirituality and function as a unifier. I serve on the CASA/GAL board because I would like my legacy to be that because of my efforts, I left the world in a better place.

My service on the CASA/GAL board is rooted in the belief that each child is entitled to a network of caring adults to support them through life. CASA/GAL volunteers play a role in building such a network for children to help them achieve the future they deserve.

Children need additional champions when families are in crisis. Nationally, CASA/GAL advocates are champions and often heroes for these children. I am grateful for my opportunities to help children.

I serve on the CASA/GAL board because I believe that kids in the foster care system are some of the most vulnerable in our society. They need support and advocacy from a consistent and caring adult in their lives. I believe CASA/GAL volunteers provide that support and consistency and play a crucial role in helping children have safe, permanent, and loving homes.

Engagement at CASA/GAL, for me, means at the most vital time in their lives, providing deep and meaningful help to children who have experienced abuse or neglect, within a fully integrated platform. Like all things that are worthy, CASA/GAL presents an important challenge, and I love challenges.

As a former social worker in the foster care system, I’m dedicated to supporting children and families who are struggling by connecting them with services to be healthy and united. It’s an honor to serve CASA/GAL’s commitment to the well-being of all children.

I serve to give kids a chance. It is important that I share some of my blessings with those who can benefit from them. Helping kids in need can make a huge difference to them, their families and our communities.

Through my experience as a clinical pastoral counselor, I know how critical early intervention is in the life of a child who has been abused or neglected. Further, I understand the vital need for court appointed advocates—as they invariably make a lasting difference in the lives of children who need support so they can thrive and live a whole life.

My appreciation for the work of CASA and GAL advocates comes from experience. For twenty-four plus years, I have seen the positive impact that well-trained, compassionate, dedicated volunteers can have on a child and family in crisis. As President of NCJFCJ, it is an honor and privilege to serve the National CASA/GAL Association on the Board of Trustees to further our joint commitment to improving the lives of vulnerable children in need.

I believe one of the noblest ways to serve is to help protect the most vulnerable amongst us. The National CASA/GAL Association’s important work does exactly that, and I am happy to dedicate my time, talents and resources to further that mission.

I believe I can be of service in helping to broaden the effectiveness and reach of National CASA/GAL. I believe that no child should go to sleep fearful of tomorrow; this should resonate not only in the confines of each regional program location, but should inform our work at the national level.

As a former CASA executive director and current President & CEO of the Dave Thomas Foundation for Adoption, I am keenly aware of the critical need for advocacy, awareness and action on behalf of our most vulnerable children and families. I am looking forward to being a champion, advocating for the well-being and bright future of each and every child.

I serve because an organization like National CASA/GAL that instills hope in our youth should never be diminished. I want to be that voice for children whose only option may be to live life one day at a time overcoming challenges. I serve to open doors and lower ceilings for children who may not realize that futures exist beyond what they may have seen or imagined.

I have engaged with my community by advocating for social justice for as long as I can remember. I am inspired by the many positive stories I have heard from the CASA community; it has helped me focus my volunteer interest and am I’m excited to help National CASA/GAL meet its goals and build for the future.