By Sara Blake
“The thing that drew me to CASA was that you can’t just show up, do it, and leave,” says volunteer Scott Glenn. “It’s so much more personal. We have to really be there.”
And Scott has been there for the boy on his case – even more than is required. “My case is long-distance, which means I have to talk or visit with him at least once a month,” Scott explains. “But to me, that doesn’t cut it. How can I be effective in his life by only talking with him once a month? So, we chose a bi-weekly schedule instead.”
In addition to knowing several people involved with CASA, including an aunt and a former boss, Scott says he “might have been a sort of CASA before I even knew what it meant."
Perhaps it shouldn’t come as a surprise to anyone who knows Scott that he’s become a CASA volunteer. In addition to knowing several people involved with CASA, including an aunt and a former boss, Scott says he “might have been a sort of CASA before I even knew what it meant. I had a little cousin who had a rough go of it in childhood. We’re close, and I’ve been able to have a sort of mentorship with her over the years. It’s not exactly the same, but I have the same hope for both my cousin and the boy on my case today – that somewhere in the background of their minds, they know there are people trying their best to make sure they’re safe and happy.”
In fact, his work as a CASA volunteer has prompted Scott to rethink his career path and, ultimately, to go back to school to become a therapist.
In fact, his work as a CASA volunteer has prompted Scott to rethink his career path and, ultimately, to go back to school to become a therapist. After completing his undergrad degree in history at Baylor University, Scott attended law school in Jackson, Mississippi. He then moved to Boston for a change, where he passed the bar. “I was licensed as a lawyer but never really practiced. I ended up working in restaurants while searching for something more fulfilling.”
While in Boston, Scott began volunteering with an equine therapy organization. “It was beautiful to be around horses in the New England fall,” he reminisces. And according to Scott, this experience made him realize he wanted to continue volunteering on a larger scale.
To Scott, CASA is the perfect opportunity to put his law experience to good use by advocating in the courtroom, while also learning how to build rapport with the teen on his case – an important relational skill not only for an aspiring counselor but for anyone who truly wants to make a difference in someone’s life.
His relationship with his cousin, his volunteer experiences, and his own personal journey have all contributed to Scott’s decision to become a therapist.
His relationship with his cousin, his volunteer experiences, and his own personal journey have all contributed to Scott’s decision to become a therapist. “I’ve learned the importance of vulnerability and human connection, especially through the 12-step program I’m part of. They truly are my family,” Scott shares. “And I’ve learned how to encourage others to open up as well.”
“I say the same thing about volunteering with CASA and my choice to pursue a career as a counselor,” says Scott: “I just knew I needed to do this.”
Could CASA be your passion? The children we serve are waiting for dedicated and caring community members just like you. Learn more on our Volunteer page or RSVP for an upcoming Volunteer Info Session over Zoom. If you're ready to begin your volunteer journey, apply today!
2021 Featured Volunteer Story Volunteer Profiles October
