September Advocate Spotlight

Ida Sudolcan

Advocate: Joseph Zlotkowski

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

I'm not sure what my official date is but I know it's been about 5 years now. What motivated me to be a CASA is the desire to make a difference in our children who are caught in the Foster Care system. My parents were always "adopting" families from our church and our home was always filled with people that did not have extended family support. We grew up giving to others even when we didn't have enough to give. God always blessed us above and beyond what we blessed others with. I always thought maybe someday I could become a foster parent but that never materialized so when I heard about CASA I jumped at the opportunity.


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

Developing relationships with the children and their foster families and their biological families. Two of my cases have resulted in adoption of sibling groups. It was so rewarding to see my first case of five brothers and sisters able to be adopted into a single home. I have kept in contact with the family and enjoy seeing them thrive.


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

Do your best and don't be discouraged with things look hopeless. Our job is to advocate for our kids. Never take “No” for an answer. Develop a positive relationship with all parties, especially the CPS case worker. Don't be afraid to express your concerns and your doubts about decisions being made for your kids. A CASA advocate is a crucial part of the case, we have to be the eyes and ears for our kids, think outside the box sometimes - push for what you know is right. You'll never regret being an advocate although sometimes it's overwhelming, we are the key to making a difference in a child's life.

Story of Hope: Nanette Hall

By bfines • November 20, 2025
During their TMC case, Nanette was assigned to two young ladies who shared a deep and loving bond with their toddler brother, who had been removed under a separate case. Recognizing that these young ladies had taken on caretaker roles for their brother, Nan wanted their visits to be safe, joyful, and centered around sibling connection rather than responsibility. Understanding the importance of preserving this relationship, Nan amplified the girls’ voices and advocated for consistent, meaningful visits while separate permanency options were being explored. She collaborated closely with the younger brother’s adoptive placement, the girls’ group home, and later their foster placement to create opportunities for the siblings to spend quality time together. When Nan was later assigned to the younger brother’s case during PMC, she was finally able to personally ensure that all three children shared visits outside of the CPS office—providing natural, family-centered experiences that strengthened their bond. Despite the children being on different permanency tracks, living in three separate placements, and facing numerous setbacks, Nan’s commitment to maintaining their connection never wavered. Eventually, the youngest child was adopted. Thanks to the strong, trusting relationship Nan had built with his adoptive family, she was able to continue arranging sibling visits even after his adoption was finalized. Nan coordinated fun, family-oriented outings where the children could enjoy time together and simply be siblings. Soon after, the middle child was also adopted. Nan ensured that all siblings were present to celebrate these important milestones in each other’s lives. She continues to organize opportunities for the siblings to connect and advocates for the oldest youth, who plans to transition out of foster care when they are older. Nan’s focus has always been on the well-being of the children. Despite challenges and complex case dynamics, she remained steadfast in ensuring that the children’s needs and wishes guided every decision. Her dedication to preserving the sibling bond demonstrates her deep understanding of how essential family connection is to achieve true permanency and emotional stability.

November Advocate Spotlight

By bfines • November 20, 2025
Natalie Rodriguez
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