Advocate Spotlight: Steven Senia
February Advocate Interview
1. How long have you been an Advocate and when did you realize you wanted to become one?
I was sworn in September 2018. I had not heard of CASA until a friend of mine, Anna Torres (who was running for Judge at the time) mentioned it to me. I was in the process of retiring and she suggested CASA as a great organization and productive way to spend some time after retirement. After taking the new advocate classes, I felt confident I could bring some hope to a few young people’s lives.
2. What is the most rewarding aspect of being an Advocate?
I gravitate towards advocating for male teens. I can relate to them, and I do so mostly through sports and food. I like the idea that I can play several roles in a young man’s life. Not only can advocate for them in court, but I can also be a mentor and a friend. I can encourage them and watch out for them like any good parent would do.
3. If you could offer words of encouragement to your fellow and incoming Advocates, what would they be?
Find your niche. Which age group are you most likely to relate to best so that you can make the most positive impact? Be their mentor, give them opportunities the placement may not be able to give. Steer them in the direction that’s going to be best for them in the long run. And if you don’t have a niche, ask your CASA supervisor where they need the most help and give it a shot, it might be just what you are looking for.
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
