February Advocate Spotlight

Cynthia Catlin-Gaskins

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

Since 2010 or 2011? I had been involved with several volunteer activities helping groups of children for a one-time event for many years. While I knew I was helping meet a need with the organization and indirectly the children, I wanted to be more involved directly with smaller groups or individual children and families to really help make a lasting difference in their lives. When my youngest son started driving, I knew it was time to take this step to become a CASA and I have never regretted it.

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

For me, those “moments” when you can say to yourself “this is why I was needed for this specific case, for these children, this family.” In every one of my cases, from the most simple to the very complex, there has always been those moments, and that very first moment in any case is especially rewarding.

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

You are giving an incredible gift of your time, your expertise and most of all your dedication as you make a difference in the lives of children and families that helps shape their future. Also, remember that your supervisor is also on the CASA journey with you and it’s important to reach out to him/her when you start to feel frustrated or disillusioned as they can help remind you of the bigger picture.

< Older Post

Newer Post >

Become a CASA Volunteer Advocate