Meet the Volunteers

A Strong Commitment to Our Mission

Volunteer Jolene managed it all: a 60–70-hour work week, a Ph.D. program, musical activities, and sports as her main hobbies, and her CASA case had a group of siblings.

“Although it may seem like an overwhelming schedule, if you ask Jolene, she will just say, ‘I'm a little busy, but CASA is important,’" says Andre, her former CASA supervisor.

Meet Volunteer Advocate Mike Lapp

“In situations where there is no structure, and kids can’t rely on anyone else, I always want to make sure I do what I say I will, because I know I might be the only one in their life that does," Mike said.

Meet Volunteer Advocate Lynn Surrette

"It's a matter of persistence and asking again and again to make things happen," Lynn said.

Meet Volunteer Advocate Tori Boullion

"People think it’s a big commitment, but I don’t think it is," Tori said. "The reward comes back to you in so many other ways."

Meet Volunteer Advocate Senthil Nathan

“I told him, ‘I’m going to be here until you get adopted.’ He’s been in several foster homes. I’m not going to abandon him. I’m the only one he has history with, one of the only constants in his life.”

Meet Volunteer Advocate Garrett Oliveira

"Being a constant presence in the kids' lives is so important."

Meet Volunteer Advocate Linda Salomon

“Honestly, CASA has brought more meaning to my life. To know that I can play a role in putting a child on the path to safety and happiness after seeing the danger and instability they were in is incredibly significant to me,” shares CASA Advocate Linda Salomon. “Even my kids can see the impact – my daughters now want to be CASA volunteers themselves!”

Meet Volunteer Advocate Lisa Grant Davis

“I believe a person’s lived experience adds real value to the bigger conversation. We all have unique lenses and experiences that shed light, create comfort, open mouths, break down barriers and can bring a new perspective to someone out there,” CASA volunteer Lisa Grant Davis states with a smile. “Maybe relatability isn’t something you can teach, but you can model how to respect diverse viewpoints and make room for the perspective of someone else. And that’s something CASA promoted in the volunteer training.”

Meet Volunteer Advocate Julie Long

“CASA is hope! I thought that I was volunteering to help someone else, and I am doing that. But I’ve gained just as much, if not more, than the child that I’m advocating for. CASA has had such an impact on the way I choose to view life, what success and happiness mean to me, and the belief that every moment is an opportunity. I’m becoming a better version of myself! Volunteering with CASA is absolutely the best thing I’ve done. It is worth every second of the time.” Meet Volunteer Advocate Julie Long!

Meet Volunteer Advocate Gloria Rodriguez

“When I’m talking to younger volunteers, I make sure they realize that they don’t have to be my age or a parent to make a huge difference in a child’s life. For example, younger advocates will have a closer connection in other ways than I do – everyone’s strength is so valid. Your experience is needed because of its uniqueness.” Meet Volunteer Advocate Gloria Rodriguez!