“I enjoy working with the kids through my cases. I feel like I am making a difference in their lives.”
When Happy was looking for a new volunteer opportunity in Northwest Arkansas, her google journey led her right to CASA of NWA’s door. After attending a CASA 101 information session and meeting with supportive members of CASA’s team, she made the decision to sign up as a volunteer.
Since 2016, Happy has been an advocate for 13 children who represent 6 families. Her advocacy is marked by consistency, kindness, compassion, and a memory for the little details.
In 2017, Happy was assigned to a young man, Cole*. These two have been together ever since, and as Cole approaches his 18th birthday, Happy has made it clear that she will continue to be a consistent and supportive person in his life. Though he is placed far outside of NWA, Happy makes regular trips to visit with Cole, and his face “lights up” when he sees her on the computer screen during meetings. Cole loves to talk with Happy each week during their phone calls and he eagerly awaits every in-person visit they get to have.
Happy’s commitment to serving Cole (and her previous CASA kids as well) is heartwarming, but for Cole, this commitment is life-changing. In just the last few months Happy has advocated for him to receive appropriate mental health care, that he be accepted in his placement’s life skills program, and that he be transitioned into a supervised independent living program upon his 18th birthday. Though his young life has been marked with many challenges, Happy is helping him build a firm path to independence.
This month, we are excited to have Happy as our CASA Volunteer Spotlight and to learn more about what motivates her to continue serving kids in care.
CASA: Tell us a bit about yourself! Happy: I grew up on a farm in Idaho, surrounded by the vast open spaces and rugged beauty of the American West. It was a defining experience that shaped my values and perspective. From a young age, I learned the importance of hard work, self-reliance, and community.
As the only one of my 4 siblings to move more than 2 hours away from home, I often felt like the odd one out. However, my family’s resilience and support taught me the importance of perseverance and adaptability. Despite the challenges, I’m grateful for my upbringing and the lessons it taught me. My family has grown since I remarried in 2018. I have a 19 year old son who will be leaving for Air Force boot camp at the end of December, a 21 year old stepdaughter who is in her 4th year at the University of Arkansas, and a 23 year old stepson who has completed his associate degree. All of the “kids” are quickly growing into independent adults.
CASA: What makes you want to continue to be a CASA? Happy: I enjoy working with the kids through my cases. I feel like I am making a difference in their lives.
CASA: What would you share with someone who is considering becoming a CASA volunteer? Happy: I would encourage anyone who has a heart for helping children to get involved in CASA. Completing pre-service volunteer training is just the first step. There are group meetings you can attend to discuss your case and learn from others. Always remember, you’re not alone. We help each other whenever possible. I love that about this organization.
My supervisor is very positive, supportive, and available whenever I need anything. I’m so thankful for the support system we have at CASA NWA!
If you’d like to learn more about becoming a volunteer advocate for a child in need in our community, visit www.nwacasa.org
*name changed for privacy