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Becky is wonderful about keeping the other professionals involved in the case informed about the needs and wants of this youth. Although Becky continues to work part-time and also volunteers for Red Cross, in her spare time, Becky will participate in opportunities that CASA offers, such as CASA to CASA, Teen Challenge event, and book group!
Q&A with Becky
How, when and why did you choose CASA?
I have been volunteering for CASA just over 1 1/2 years now. I retired from being an ESL teacher and a Special Education teacher in PSD in 2023. I knew that I wanted to keep connecting with kids and stay involved in my community. CASA was the perfect way to do that.
Can you share a little bit about your case and the youth you're working with?
I am still on my first case with CASA. I am working with a very spunky 13-year-old girl who I absolutely have grown to adore. It took a very long time to form a trusting relationship with her and we had a bumpy start, but I’m so glad we both stuck with it. We have reached a point in our relationship where we can joke around, have fun, and also have more meaningful conversations. It is a time of big transitions. Even though it’s only been 1 1/2 years, I feel like I’ve seen her grow and change so much, as well as gain maturity.
What has your experience been like as a CASA?
My experience as a volunteer has been a great one. I have learned so much through all the trainings that CASA has offered. I have made mistakes and learned from them, and I have proven to myself that you can and should keep engaged, learning, and growing throughout your life. There have been hard days, and many amazing ones.
What are some activities you do with your youth on your case?
We have a weekly routine where we go out for breakfast on Wednesday mornings each week. This is her late start day at school, so she enjoys going out and getting a ride to school. We’ve also done quite a few adventure day trips. We went to a festival in Estes Park, the Wild Animal Sanctuary, painting at Pinot’s Palette, and were lucky enough to see the fireflies at Riverbend Ponds when they were filming a documentary.
What is one moment that has stood out to you as a volunteer?
Just one? One of the things that impresses me the most is how hard her grandparents have worked to make sure she maintained a close and positive relationship with her parents. They never criticized or judged her parents, but were always cheering them on to success.
Is there anything you would like to add?
Being a CASA volunteer has been more rewarding that I thought possible. It is not always easy, but I’m so glad I am doing this. I’ve met wonderful people, and it has helped me transition to retirement, while still keeping busy and feeling like I can make a difference.
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