Story of Hope: Melissa
April Advocate Impact Story
Written By: Melissa's Advocate Supervisor
This story highlights the dedication of one of our newest CASA advocates. Melissa Arzola was sworn in as a new volunteer on February 14th. She was quickly assigned to a case with two boys, Trey 9, and Leo, 7 (names changed for confidentiality). Trey and Leo were removed from their homes due to numerous concerns. The children were showing up to school unkempt, dirty and hungry, their home did not have running water or electricity, and the floors were covered in dirty clothes and trash. There were also concerns about domestic violence in the home as well as drug use. The children were removed and placed in the foster care system.
Melissa quickly got to work and contacted the caseworker to read the case file and to introduce herself. She learned that the children had been placed with a paternal relative and that visits were scheduled with the mother. She was also able to get in touch with the caregiver to introduce herself and to see how the boys were doing. The caregiver reported the kids were doing well, and that they seemed to have adjusted to their home, new schedule, and routine. The caregiver had some questions about required appointments and after school resources and Melissa promised to check with CPS for any updates.
On March 9th, Melissa was notified that the mother on the case had passed away. She immediately ensured that the rest of the parties had been notified, and also spoke with the caseworker to see what resources would be available for the boys. She also contacted the Bereavement Center to see if the boys could receive services, and then reached out to the relative to offer her condolences and support for the family. She learned that unfortunately, due to the Coronavirus concerns, the family was not able to travel out of state for the funeral service. The family reported that the boys are doing ok under the current circumstances.
Melissa wanted "to let them know that even though she can’t visit them right now, she is still thinking about them."
At the end of the month, Melissa was able to participate in the court hearing by phone and ensure that her recommendations and concerns were addressed by the court. During this time, she sent a care package to the boys on her case to let them know that even though she can’t visit them right now, she is still thinking about them. She sent some activity books, personalized journals, and “The Memory Book”, which is a grief journal designed for children and families.
Melissa will continue to advocate for her CASA kids and be that stability for them, even during this time of uncertainty.
Help us provide more Advocates like Melissa who are willing to go above and beyond even in the midst of crisis to provide a voice for children in foster care.
Fund Their Hope
From January 2022 to November 2024, Michelle Custard profoundly impacted the lives of three siblings navigating the challenges of the foster care system. These children endured heartbreaking instability, including the pain of a failed adoption after a year and repeated returns to Group Homes. Each setback deepened their sense of uncertainty, but Michelle became a steadfast presence in their lives. As their CASA advocate, Michelle worked tirelessly to ensure their voices were heard and their needs were prioritized. She championed their right to stay together as a sibling group, safeguarded their emotional well-being, and continuously fought for their Best Interests in court. Her unwavering support gave them hope during a tumultuous time. When a cousin from another state expressed a desire to adopt the siblings, Michelle's role expanded even further. She facilitated communication between state agencies, provided much-needed emotional support to the children, and guided the cousin through the intricate and often daunting adoption requirements. The journey was anything but easy. The cousin faced numerous legal and logistical hurdles, but their determination never wavered. Thanks to Michelle’s persistence and dedication, the cousin successfully navigated the system, demonstrating their readiness to provide a loving and stable home. In the end, the siblings were united with family, beginning a new chapter filled with the stability and security they had long deserved. Michelle's advocacy not only reunited them with their kin but also changed the trajectory of their lives, ensuring they could grow and thrive together in a nurturing environment.
Lora Lane
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