Story of Hope: Valerie Vara


Advocate Valerie Vara became a beacon of stability for three siblings—Ariel, Anna, and Aaron—living with their maternal grandmother. Each child carried their own burdens, but with Valerie’s unwavering support, they began to find their voices and regain a sense of security and normalcy. Valerie not only provided guidance but also served as a constant presence in their lives, making a profound difference during a turbulent time.


One of Valerie's most significant contributions was advocating for the children to attend therapy. Recognizing their need to process their emotions and experiences, she ensured they received the professional help necessary to navigate their feelings. For Aaron, who was particularly struggling with his relationship with their father, Valerie became a trusted ally. When he voiced his hesitation about visiting, she listened attentively and respected his feelings, reassuring him that it was okay to set boundaries. This validation was invaluable for Aaron, who often felt unheard in his family dynamics.


The gratitude expressed by the children, especially Aaron, was a testament to the trust they placed in Valerie. He often told her how much he appreciated her willingness to listen and understand, allowing him to feel safe sharing his fears. As the therapy sessions progressed, the children began to flourish, revealing their bright personalities and newfound confidence. The three siblings thrived and started doing much better academically. Anna was diagnosed with ADHD and was prescribed meditation, which helped her tremendously in school.


At trial, the parents maintained their possessory rights and maternal grandmother was given primary conservatorship. Valerie advocated for the parents to provide child support to the grandmother and it was granted. Valerie’s commitment to the children have been nothing short of inspiring. By advocating for their needs and providing emotional support, she has helped them build resilience and hope for the future.


The bond they share is a reminder of the incredible impact one person can have on the lives of others. 

Story of Hope: Staff Advocate JoAnn

By bfines • March 9, 2026
In March 2025, Child Protective Services removed four young children, just 7, 4, 2, and 3 months old, from their mother’s care. This difficult step followed ongoing concerns about neglect, largely connected to the mother’s struggle with substance use, even during her most recent pregnancy. Although CPS offered support through Family Based Safety Services, the mother was unable to engage in the help provided. The children’s father was also unable to support them due to his own substance abuse and his incarceration in Bexar County Jail. Before removal, the children’s basic medical and educational needs were going unmet. They had been moved repeatedly between their mother and other relatives, leaving them without the stability, routine, and nurturing supervision every child deserves.  When CASA Staff Advocate, JoAnn Herring, was assigned the case in April 2025, she immediately reached out to both kinship caregivers to understand the children’s needs and how to best support the families stepping in to care for them. JoAnn quickly learned that the paternal grandmother, who lovingly took in some of the children, was struggling financially and facing barriers due to limited English proficiency. To ensure she wasn’t facing these challenges alone, JoAnn submitted a CFE (Collaborative Family Engagement) referral and personally provided translation support so the grandmother could access services with dignity and understanding. Throughout the case, JoAnn has witnessed moments where cultural sensitivity was lacking, and personal biases influenced important decisions; often at the expense of what was best for the children. Despite these obstacles, she continues to advocate steadfastly and compassionately for the children to remain with the kinship caregivers who have opened their homes and hearts to provide safety, consistency, and love. Although the case is not yet over, Joann’s story demonstrates that CASA’s advocacy reaches beyond the children themselves, strengthening the village of care and support surrounding them, because CASA wants children to be safe, to thrive, and to have their overall well-being protected.

March Advocate Spotlight

By bfines • March 9, 2026
Johnathan Cobb
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