Story of Hope: Lynn Wilson

Lynn Wilson swore in as an advocate on February 10th, 2023, and signed on to Ivy and Marcus’ case, in April. Ivy and Marcus, ages three and one, entered foster care in March of 2023 due to concerns of severe physical neglect and neglectful supervision by their mother. The children were born out of state and the mother had previously been involved with Child Protective Services in Arizona and Nevada.

 

Lynn has been an unwavering presence in the lives of these young children. Since the case began, Ivy and Marcus have endured several challenges including four placement changes. When Ivy and Marcus were placed in a different foster home outside of San Antonio, Lynn consistently made the 7- hour round trip drive to see them. Lynn is one of the only familiar faces Ivy and Marcus know and can consistently count on.

 

Lynn's involvement goes well beyond visiting the children. This case was further complicated by the fact that the children were born out of state and when they were brought into care had no identifying documentation such as birth certificates. The case was also struck by several worker changes and the kiddos’ needs were in danger of falling through the cracks. Lynn diligently contacted various stakeholders to secure essential information to include learning how to request the kiddo’s birth certificates. She ensured Ivy and Marcus’ dental, and medical appointments were scheduled. She also reached out to different community resources to help support a kinship placement in town so that Ivy and Marcus wouldn’t have to be sent to yet another foster home.

 

When the children were placed with relatives in November of 2023, Lynn continued to support the children and the placement by assisting with transportation and even providing fresh fruit for Ivy and Marcus, so they had access to healthy snacks.  For their birthdays, Lynn brought cupcakes to their daycare, so that Ivy and Marcus could experience a sense of normalcy by celebrating with their peers.

 

This case is far from over and as of right now Ivy and Marcus have not found their forever home. Thankfully Lynn is right there advocating for their needs every step of the way.

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.

April Advocate Spotlight

By bfines • April 14, 2026
Joy Varner
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