October Advocate Spotlight

Sandra Jarzombek

Advocate: Joseph Zlotkowski

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

“I have been an advocate since May 2022. I wanted to become an advocate as far back as 2012 yet we were still actively fostering and then providing Respite for the families we mentored. The day after our last family adopted their kids, I signed up for classes."


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

“Being the constant in my boy's life. They have been through so much at such a young age. It is heartwarming when they squeal my name as they come in for a hug. I also enjoy that one of the foster moms will call me to reinforce positive behaviors they are displaying. Over the year I have watched all five of my kids grow and learn to trust again.”


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

“Three things: 1) Remember your job is to advocate for the children in your case. You should befriend the bio parents and encourage them to successfully complete their service plans while focusing on what is in the best interest of the children. 2) QTIP--Quit Taking It Personal. So much happens in foster care that is simply ridiculous, you can't take it personally and need to stay focused on the children. 3) Trust your CASA supervisor. They have seen and heard it all. They have your back and are an excellent sounding board and resource.”

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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