November Advocate Spotlight

Matt McGlothlin

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

I have been an Advocate for just over four years now. Many years ago my employer at the time was a really big supporter of CASA. We had easels set up in the lobby of our building with pictures of kids that had benefitted from having an Advocate. It took several years and a volunteer fair at my church before I finally convinced myself to take the plunge.

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

The most rewarding thing about being an Advocate is knowing that I am actually making a difference in someone’s life. I have always wanted to know that when I leave this world that someone aside from my family benefitted from my being here. With CASA, I can tangibly see the impact I am making. I also enjoy fighting for my kid, even when the odds seem against him.

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

Mainly just “Never Give Up”. This can take on two forms.

• Never give up on your kid. Ever. I have been with my current kid over 2 ½ years now. There were times when I felt like just stepping away. It took almost 9 months just to earn his trust. There were times he refused to see me. Sometimes his behavior was just terrible. But then I would tell myself that most of the adults in his life had walked away from him, and I was determined not to be another. I have made it a point to visit him whenever he is moved, regardless of where that is. Today we have a great relationship and he trusts me completely.

• Never give up fighting for your kid. There have been multiple times when just about everyone except my supervisor disagreed with my recommendations, even though I knew in my heart I was acting in his best interests. I have gone against CPS, his ad litem, case workers, and therapists. I listen to what they have to say but then I have to weigh what they are recommending with what is best for him.

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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.