April Advocate Spotlight
Brigitte West
1. How long have you been an Advocate and when did you realize you wanted to become one?
I have only been an Advocate for one year; however, I did a clerkship with CASA in Jacksonville, Florida many years ago when I was still in law school. I have known since back then that, at some point in my life, I would devote the time necessary to be an Advocate.
2. What is the most rewarding aspect of being an Advocate?
Time spent with the children is wonderful; however, the most rewarding aspect of advocating is making things happen! It is gratifying to know that , in some instances, good things would not have happened for the kids if I had not pushed for and followed up on them.
3. If you could offer some words of encouragement to your fellow and incoming Advocates, what would they be?
Sometimes, the layers of bureaucracy and the numerous contact points attached to the kids do not function well together. It can be frustrating, but the CASA is the one who can bring it all together. When that happens, you really know the difference your effort has made for the children.
Brittany Coppage
CASA Volunteer Advocate, Christina Albert, was appointed to the case. She immediately contacted CPS, then reached out to the grandparents and traveled to visit the children.
