Story of Hope: "I will be with you..."
Advocate Impact Story
"I will be with you as your friend along the way."
These words were shared with Katrina by her advocate, Aaron Anderson, as she was preparing to move for the 3rd time since her CPS case started. Such simple words can make a world of difference in a youth's life.
Katrina and her brother Kyle have been through a lot in their young lives. They were removed from a home that while we may think was never appropriate, it was home for them. Kyle is non-verbal which means Karina feels more alone most of the time as she cannot communicate and share their feelings with Kyle. Katrina has expressed feeling alone at times but feels comfort knowing that they are together in the same placement.
Aaron was assigned to the case a few months ago and quickly made contact with the youth. He tried really hard to create rapport and build a relationship with the children though circumstances made it difficult. Aaron never backed down, making sure that anyone and everyone would listen to the attempts to build that relationship with the children.
Aaron’s persistence paid off and he was able to visit with the children virtually. Katrina was hesitant to talk to Aaron but within time was able to open up. They talked about the upcoming placement change and she expressed being scared about moving yet again. Aaron reassured her that everything would be okay and stated "I'll be there as your friend along the way." Immediately the youth smiled and was observed taking a deep breath as if she was relieved and knew she was no longer alone- she now had a friend.
A lot of our children are expressing fear and mixed emotions as they are approaching the summer months. For some, it means that their routines are changing while others are nervous about attending summer camp. Some of our youth will even be moving placements now that the school year has ended. It is important that our advocates continue to ensure these children that they will be "with them as their friend along the way” just as Aaron has done for Katrina and Kyle.
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
