April Advocate Spotlight

Brittany Coppage

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

I began my advocate journey back in 2019. I remember seeing a commercial for CASA, and it really interested me given its unique opportunity to not only be able to be hands-on with the children who are in the foster care system, but also in the legal system to advocate on their behalf. I think all of us have been touched or saddened by a foster care story that's been presented in the news or knowing someone personally who has gone through the system. Once I found out about this opportunity, I could no longer sit idly by without doing something. Children are vulnerable and deserve to be taken care of. I became an advocate so I could have the opportunity to help just one child. If I could just help one, then I feel like I did my very small part to make this system better for our community's children. Luckily, I have had the opportunity to serve more than one- which makes it even sweeter!

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

The most rewarding aspect of being a CASA advocate is absolutely developing the special bond with the children I have the pleasure to advocate for. Nothing is better than getting a huge hug and seeing that they are happy and healthy! To know that I am on their team, and that I can help provide the important advocacy for their well-being and safety is a really amazing feeling.

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

If I were to offer some words of encouragement to anyone who is or who is becoming an advocate, I'd tell them that this is such a unique experience that will make a difference in a child's life. It may seem overwhelming at times but trust your supervisor to guide you throughout your case. From understanding the process of a case, the legal system, working with attorneys and CPS caseworkers - this is truly an amazing opportunity to learn and expand your mind, especially in complicated situations. Each case will be different and offer opportunities for you as an advocate to develop your skills and become even better for the children you will be helping. It is a huge responsibility. You may have to juggle a career, your own family, and whatever life throws at you while you work on your case, so be ready to just keep going! The reward of helping a child will make the hard work with it and knowing you can make a difference in our community is an amazing superpower to have.

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Become a CASA Volunteer Advocate

Story of Hope: Staff Advocate Stephanie

By bfines • April 14, 2026

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.