January - Inspirational Moments
Dream to Advocate like Dr. King
“Life’s most persistent and urgent question is,
‘What are you doing for others?”
- Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. is known throughout history as one of the most influential civil rights leaders. A Baptist minister advocating for nonviolent means to end racial segregation, he sought equality and human rights for African Americans, the economically disadvantaged and all victims of injustice through peaceful protests.
He, much like our advocates and our mission, are engaged in their community and providing a voice for those facing disparities. In 2019 African American children in Bexar County represented about 13% of the general population, and about 22% of the children in foster care. Facing disproportionality on top of the trauma that comes from entering the foster care system, these kids desire a person who will speak up for them, just like many longed for someone like Dr. King.
Not only has the COVID 19 crisis disproportionately impacted communities of color, but it has also brought a heightened awareness to ensure our children in foster care have an advocate that provides a powerful voice. We all have seen the world change in front of our eyes, at times with an unclear path. As CASA Volunteers we often deal with similar feelings on our cases, put in situations we have never experienced.
The passion and dedication demonstrated by each Volunteer truly is the heart of our agency. Always working to maintain the child’s best interest. Though this year our visits and court hearings may look different, our mission has not changed. Our Volunteers have worked harder than ever to make impacts while navigating their cases with love and empathy.
This year, without a doubt, is historical and CASA continues to honor Dr. King’s legacy by recruiting and training a diverse group of advocates in order to mirror the diverse group of kids we serve. Our goal is to fill the void of disproportionality and support each advocate as they become a part of changing the lives of children who have faced child abuse and neglect.
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.
Natalie Rodriguez
