November Advocate Spotlight

Michelle Ramirez

Advocate: Joseph Zlotkowski

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

“I believe it's going on 2 years! I've always loved kids; they have always gravitated towards me. Now that I'm getting older, I started thinking of maybe becoming a foster parent, but the only interactions with kids I had were with my nieces and nephews. I figured this would be good to really know what it's like to interact with foster children AND be a voice for them especially before I decide to become a foster parent.” 


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

“The most rewarding aspect of this is knowing that these kids have someone to count on and confide in. I am truly interested in what is best for them. I remember thinking I wish I had more mentors growing up; someone who is a good role model to remind me that there is good in the world despite current tough situations. When the kids are happy, I'm happy.”


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

“You might feel nervous at first because you don't know what to expect but just you being there will already mean so much to the kids! They need kindhearted people like yourself to really listen to them, and to help express how they feel.”

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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