Tell us a short snippet about yourself:
Hi everyone! My name is Kelly. I am a wife and mother, and I have been a dentist for 25 years. I am honored to be a second-year CASA. I grew up in Texas, where I practiced dentistry for 12 years. I moved to Colorado in 2009. My family and I currently live in Erie, Colorado. I am working as a full-time dentist for InnovAge while I am completing my Master’s in Public Health.
Why did you decide to become a CASA?
I have always had a calling to help others… that is why I am a dentist. I was a foster parent in 2012, and I felt very fulfilled helping children in need.After re-marrying in 2017, I knew I wanted to get involved with kids in foster care again. My stepson, Isaac, a CASA, in Denver County, inspired me to seek out CASA. I am currently working on my third CASA case.
What do you like best about being a CASA?
The best thing about being a CASA is the relationships I build with the kids. Many times, I question if, or how I am making a difference. However, consistent participation with child visitations and family team meetings provides insight into the child’s circumstances, giving me deeper empathy. Empathy, then, allows me to build trust with the kids and advocate for them with all interested parties.
How many CASA cases have you had?
I am currently assigned to a case where progress towards permanency is developing slower than expected. A few months ago, I arrived at the foster home for my weekly visit, where I was surprisingly greeted as “Kelly Sparkles”. Apparently, my CASA kid affectionately assigned me this nickname after our previous visit at the park, where we played soccer and hide-and-seek. The name touched my heart, and the name has stayed with me!
What has being a CASA taught you?
Serving as a CASA has taught me the importance of intentionality and commitment towards children and their families during the healing process. I have learned about available resources for struggling families in Weld County, and I have gained insight into the child welfare legal process. However, I have mostly learned to have deep compassion for the children and their families as they persevere towards reunification.
What keeps you motivated as a CASA?
Working with the helpful staff at Life Stories, having a supportive family and a strong faith, and seeing these children and families overcome insurmountable barriers, continue to inspire me as a CASA.
