This is a story about the Romero Family – 3 children who range in age from 4 to 9 years old. 3 children who love to play and love each other very much. 3 children who were placed in a loving foster home because they were exposed to domestic violence and abuse by their parents. This is also a story about Beth, a CASA volunteer who soon became a fierce advocate and friend to these 3 children. When she met them, shortly after their removal from their parents’ home, they were all struggling with the trauma and abuse they had suffered. They acted out and were behind in school. Beth was not deterred. She not only visited the children regularly, but she also met with teachers and counselors. As a retired teacher, she was able to understand the needs of these children and get them the educational help they needed. She was also able to offer ideas to the foster parents to help improve the children’s behavior.
As time went on, the children began to thrive in their new setting. The Romero children were soon adopted by their foster parents. While Beth is now longer actively advocating for the children, she has become an honorary member of their family – keeping in touch with the children and even attending their birthday celebrations.
The CASA program and the Romero family are so fortunate to have CASA volunteers like Beth in our program. Their tireless dedication to the children we serve really does change lives.
