November Advocate Spotlight

Joseph Zlotkowski

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

It will be four years as an advocate come December 2022. I realized I wanted to be an advocate when I learned about CASA from a co-worker. I did some research on the CASA website. I prayed about this and came to realize I should try to be a CASA.

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

This is difficult as my cases have not always turned out well. I continue to reach out to my children to see how they are doing, but there are very few replies. I continue in this work because it allows me to help give the kids a better chance in life. It is so easy for them to fall between the cracks. I find myself working with the various agencies and staff to coordinate their efforts and make sure the kids have the best chance possible.

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

Be persistent. Be present. Your work is making a difference. It may be years before your kids realize how much of a difference you made in their lives. They may find someone else to be their mentor and you will know you helped connect them with that person. You are helping fill the cracks in their lives and giving them hope.

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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.