January Advocate Spotlight

Laura de Leon

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


I have been an Advocate for three years now. I had heard about CASA for years, even when I lived out of state. I always thought it was something I wanted to explore, but had a million reasons getting in my way – my work, my own family obligations, etc. Then, at the end of 2018, I realized that there would never be a perfect time and I didn’t want to wait anymore. I wanted to feel a part of something and give to my community, so I had to make the time. I contacted CASA, went to an info session, and never looked back!


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


Just knowing that I can help bring security and hopefully a piece of happiness to my kids during a very difficult time in their lives. Whether I am talking to my kids 1x1, showing them that they matter, working with their placement to get them access to a resource, or even connecting a caseworker or ad litem with important information about the kids so they can fulfill their roles – it all helps.


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


Don’t give up, everything you do has a positive impact. And talk to your supervisor! They are so supportive and helpful. There are ups and downs – particularly these last two years – that make it seem harder to advocate. But as Advocates, we 100% help the process in every way. 

Story of Hope: Brennan Holland

By bfines • February 13, 2025
Brennan Holland was assigned to Sarah in December 2022. Sarah entered foster care with a history of abuse, neglect, and exploitation, yet she remains incredibly resilient. Throughout her time in care, she has experienced multiple placements. Brennan quickly learned that Sarah has a strong passion for neuroscience and dreams of becoming a neurosurgeon. Determined to pursue her goal, she graduated early from high school and is now enrolled in the College Bound Docket program, attending her school of choice—UTSA. However, the path to achieving her dream has not been without challenges.\ Sarah received a discharge notice from her current placement and was denied Supervised Independent Living (SIL) until she turned 18. It felt as though no one was giving her a real chance. CASA stepped in to advocate for Sarah’s independence, pushing for her to live in a dorm on her own. Not everyone on her team supported this idea due to concerns about her age, limited independent living experience, and fears that she might run away, be influenced by older peers, or engage in risky behavior. CASA, however, continued to stand by Sarah, even offering financial assistance to help her move into a dorm until she became eligible for SIL.  At Sarah’s next court hearing on January 24, 2025, her attorney ad litem filed a motion for her to live in a dorm at UTSA. CASA once again advocated for the court to approve this plan. The judge, quoting Brennan’s court report, stated, “Brennan said it correctly: You are going to succeed or fail based on your decisions.” Ultimately, the judge authorized Sarah to live in the dorms on campus and ordered CPS to cover the cost of SIL. CASA recently assisted Sarah in moving into her very first dorm room, and we are excited to see what the future holds for her. Since being placed on campus, she has built a strong network of supportive adults to help her thrive. The impact of CASA facilitating these vital connections is crucial in ensuring that young adults like Sarah have the support they need to successfully transition into adulthood.

February Advocate Spotlight

By bfines • February 13, 2025
Emily White
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