Josh’s mother died of a drug overdose when he was a toddler, leaving him in the care of his alcoholic father. As Josh grew, he suffered physical abuse and neglect at the hands of his father that prompted him to start drinking and using drugs to cope at a young age. Then, Josh met his CASA volunteer, Anthony. Josh did not trust Anthony at first, and when Anthony would visit, Josh was sullen and withdrawn. Despite this, Anthony believed in Josh’s potential and never missed a court date, weekly visit, or family team meeting. After a few months of Anthony’s consistent visits, Josh began to trust Anthony and his outlook began to change. Josh quit using drugs and alcohol, started doing better in school and, with Anthony’s encouragement, began counseling to deal with his substance use and the abuse he endured from his father. Josh even made plans to enroll in a vocational program after high school. At the close of Josh’s senior year, Anthony watched proudly as Josh walked across the stage to receive his high school diploma.
Josh’s Story
