September Advocate Spotlight

Diana De Paz

 1. How long have you been an Advocate and when did you realize you wanted to become one?

I have been a child advocate since Feb of 2021. The organization and their work were introduced to me by my husband, who is a child psychiatrist. The impact of child abuse and neglect is something that my husband always talked to me about and after events in our lives it became clear to me that I had to do something about that. The thought that some children are not smiling and enjoying their childhood brought deep sadness to me. I know I would not change the world but if I could make a child smile and be there through their hardships I would make a difference. 


2. What is the most rewarding aspect of being an Advocate? 

From day one it has been extremely rewarding, from meeting my CASA kids and being able to build a bond, to seeing their faces smiling and running towards me to embrace me in a hug. Just knowing that during their most challenging times, they still recognize me as a constant presence is a reward in itself. I want them to know that they have someone to hold their hand through any changes. Another rewarding aspect is knowing that my recommendations will make a difference in their lives. If you are there and you listen and get to know the children well you have a sense of what they need and what’s best for them. This role allows me to advocate and be their voice even in court and with decisions that will improve their wellbeing. 


3. If you could offer some words of encouragement to your fellow and incoming Advocates, what would they be?

My words to other fellow or potential advocates is to keep in mind that in a world so big and difficult to understand, children have a message that needs to be heard, and if someone listens their message will inspire the listener so much that they can learn from the children how to overcome any challenges in their own lives. All they need is someone that is all-in for them. Be that person.

Story of Hope: Alfredo Concha

By bfines • March 21, 2025
 In December 2023, CPS received a Priority One referral regarding a 2-year-old child named Katherine, who had been hospitalized after ingesting narcotics. Her mother, Jessica, admitted to being under the influence of methamphetamines at the time. Katherine later tested positive for amphetamines, prompting the Department to seek removal of both Katherine and her 4-year-old sister, Valerie. Their maternal grandmother expressed willingness to care for them but only if CPS became involved. CASA advocate Alfredo Concha was appointed to the case and immediately took action. He contacted the grandparents and met with the children. During that visit, he learned that while the grandparents were willing to provide temporary care, they could not commit beyond December 2024. They had already adopted the girls' older sibling, which kept them busy, and as elderly caregivers, they felt unable to raise two young children long-term. They made it clear—either Jessica would have to get her life back on track by December, or the girls would need another placement. Understanding the urgency, Alfredo used Collaborative Family Engagement tools to seek additional family members who could offer support. He built a strong working relationship with Jessica, which proved invaluable. Through collaboration with Jessica, the grandparents, CPS, and the children's attorney, Alfredo identified and addressed barriers to reunification. A primary concern was Jessica’s history of substance abuse and the risk of relapse. After completing inpatient drug treatment, Jessica chose to move in with her ex-boyfriend, Robert, and his mother, Marie. Given Robert’s history of substance abuse and their previously volatile relationship, Alfredo recommended that Robert participate in services to strengthen their family dynamic. This included undergoing a substance abuse assessment, engaging in treatment, and completing a domestic violence prevention program. Alfredo also ensured Robert and Marie were included in planning meetings. During one of these meetings, Marie expressed her willingness to take in the children and committed to caring for them regardless of Jessica and Robert’s relationship. With this new support system in place, the girls were able to return to Jessica on December 3, 2024. CPS and Alfredo closely monitored the placement for several weeks to ensure stability. By January 2025, Alfredo recommended case closure, allowing the family to move forward with their lives. During the final hearing, Jessica addressed the court, expressing her gratitude. She stated that without the support of CPS and Alfredo, she would not have been able to succeed.

March Advocate Spotlight

By bfines • March 21, 2025
Larry Rushing
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