May Advocate Spotlight

Mark Ramos and Juan Villarreal

Advocate: Joseph Zlotkowski

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

“I (Juan) became a CASA in January 2020. I was inspired to volunteer after learning about the CASA organization and its mission on the Texicanas TV show. In the last four years, I’ve had the opportunity to advocate for seventeen children, whose ages range between 0-16, on nine cases.”

 

“I (Mark) have been an advocate since April 2023. Seeing my husband as an advocate inspired me to become one. I witnessed him receive the Judge Sakai award after hearing about all his hard work as an advocate. Hearing the stories of other advocates including my husband that day encouraged me to become one. I was very excited to learn how to advocate for children who aren’t able to advocate for themselves.”


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

“The aspects we both view as most rewarding are the bonds we build and the progress the children make along the way. The children are always excited to see us or get a call. Towards the end of our visits, they’re always excited to make plans for the next visit.”

 

“We also enjoy sibling visits. Sometimes the kids may not see each other for several weeks or months. When we can make those visits happen, it’s rewarding to witness the happiness and love the siblings share with each other.”


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

“There will be speed bumps throughout the case — it’s normal. There will be some difficult days, but mostly successful and productive days. Document as much as possible, as soon as possible. Refer to your Optima notes when preparing your Court Reports. Don’t be afraid to ask for help from your CASA Supervisor. Always remember why you became an Advocate.”

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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