Advocate Spotlight: James Jones
September Advocate Interview
1. How long have you been an Advocate and when did you realize you wanted to become one?
I have been an Advocate since March 2019. I retired from the San Antonio Police Department last year, and wanted to find a way to give back to my community. I had been aware of CASA for a few years and decided to look deeper into its mission and goals. After some research and inquiries, I decided this would be such a great way to give back. And what better way to give back to my community than to help children?
2. What is the most rewarding aspect of being an Advocate?
Since I was retired, I talked CASA into giving me an additional case, which brought my number of CASA kids up to nine. For me, the rewards come from the relationships with my CASA kids. It hasn't been easy at times. Depending on the situation and the reasons for their removal from their home, it can take some time to gain their trust and for them to realize you're on their side. And once that happens, it's such a great feeling. They begin to open up to you, share with you (about things both good and bad), and allow you into their world and their hearts. And the first time they give you a hug is just awesome.
There are so many rewards to being an Advocate. But knowing you are making a difference in a child's life is indescribable.
3. If you could offer words of encouragement to your fellow and incoming Advocates, what would they be?
I think I would tell incoming Advocates that they will be filling a huge void for these kids, and to realize that these kids' lives probably haven't been all sunshine and roses. All you can do is to be there for them. You are their voice... their true advocate.
And I guess I'd encourage all Advocates, both incoming and veterans, to not give up. Some of the kids have put up a huge wall and won't let anyone in. I have one like that. But I wasn't going to give up on him. And then one day, he let me in. And it's been so great ever since! As tough and frustrating as it can be, we all just have to keep trying... and, besides, that's all anyone can ask.
In April 2023, Child Protective Services received a referral reporting that two sisters, ages 15 and 16, were being held at the Bexar County Juvenile Detention Center following a family altercation. Mother informed the department that she did not have a place for the girls to be released, and they were subsequently placed in an emergency shelter. Mother was asked if she would attend the court hearing and stated that she would not. Although both sisters were released to Mother from the Bexar County Juvenile Detention Center, Mother refused to pick them up. There were no relatives or family friends willing to provide placement for the girls, and Mother stated that she wanted to voluntarily sign over her parental rights. Stephanie was assigned as the CASA Staff Advocate in May 2025. By this time, both sisters had experienced multiple placements. The older sister was 18 years old, enrolled in College Docket, and preparing to graduate from high school. The younger sister was 17 years old and residing at the Bexar County Juvenile Detention Center. Although the sisters were on different paths, they remained emotionally connected and struggled with maintaining contact due to their circumstances. CASA attended the older sister’s high school graduation and the graduation celebration that followed. CASA assisted her with completing all required paperwork and testing necessary for college enrollment. Additionally, CASA supported her in moving into her first apartment, helping her get settled and navigate the challenges of early adulthood. While the younger sister was residing at the Bexar County Juvenile Detention Center, CASA met with her shortly after assignment and introduced herself. The younger sister was later transferred to the Texas Juvenile Justice Department (TJJD). CASA continued to maintain contact despite challenges related to TJJD policies and procedures. CASA established a positive and consistent point of contact, worked to understand TJJD visitation processes, gathered relevant information, maintained communication with the youth, and actively worked to schedule sibling visitation. CASA has remained a consistent and reliable support system for the older sister as she transitions into adulthood. The youth frequently contacts CASA for guidance and assistance with everyday questions, and CASA continues to provide support. The older sister is currently passing all of her college courses, earning straight A’s, and is actively seeking employment. For the younger sister, CASA remains in close communication with TJJD case managers. CASA provides ongoing support through in-person visits every three months and monthly video calls. CASA is also gathering clothing, legal documentation, and preparing a comprehensive resource packet to support the younger sister upon her release. Through every challenge this case brings, Stephanie will stand beside these sisters, offering unwavering support and encouragement as they discover their strength and reach their full potential.
Joy Varner
