By Anne Koncki
Growing up without a father, Senthil Nathan knew how difficult it was to feel the absence of a parent in his life. When he decided to become a CASA volunteer, he wanted to advocate for a child who had experienced family hardships of their own.
In his eight years as a volunteer, Senthil has done just that. He has been appointed to two cases during his time with CASA and recognizes the importance of his consistent presence above all else.
“An understanding I’ve gotten over the years is kids have a lot of struggles,” Senthil said. “Sometimes just being there is so much more significant than making sure they pass in school.”
“An understanding I’ve gotten over the years is kids have a lot of struggles,” Senthil said. “Sometimes just being there is so much more significant than making sure they pass in school.”
Senthil has served on his current case for five years. His own son was 8 years old when Senthil received the appointment, and being matched with a child around the same age helped him relate. “It took a year for him to trust me and establish that relationship,” Senthil said. Senthil has been with the child through many experiences, including various placements and near-adoptions.
“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 that he has a history with, one of the only constants in his life.”
“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 a history with, one of the only constants in his life.”
Despite the challenges that have arisen, Senthil has advocated for the child he serves at the residential treatment center he is currently placed at, ensured he receives counseling twice a week, and is creating family connections to explore permanent placements.
When he isn’t engaged in advocacy work, Senthil works in IT consulting. He spends his free time motorcycling and hiking the Turkey Creek Trail in Emma Long Metropolitan Park with his son. One thing he’s noticed is how his teen son and the child he serves as a volunteer aren’t all that different.
“I notice, ‘My kid does this too.’ They have a lot in common.”
When asked about the best parts of volunteering, Senthil said, “Just being there consistently over the years has been the highlight of it. Sometimes, I feel like I’ve gotten more out of it than him,” he said. “I feel so happy that I’m doing this.”
You can join Senthil in being a source of hope for a child who needs you! Learn more about becoming an advocate on our Volunteer page, apply now, or RSVP for an upcoming Volunteer Info Session!
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