Noah* was just fifteen years old when an increasingly tumultuous relationship with his parents escalated. Eventually, they permanently kicked him out of their home. With nowhere to go and nobody to turn to, he spiraled into a mental health crisis and had to be admitted to the hospital before eventually being placed in a foster home.
After Noah moved into a foster care placement, CASA volunteer Jenny stepped into the picture. Noah’s repeated failed attempts to contact his parents made it clear that reunification was an unlikely outcome. Jenny instead focused on helping Noah build stability and independence as he approached adulthood, making recommendations in court to help him get there.
From the beginning, Jenny advocated for LGBTQIA+ affirming therapy for Noah. His identity was a source of conflict in his relationship with his parents, and she recognized his need for a supportive, affirming presence. Jenny also recognized that Noah had fallen far behind in school and advocated for him to shift to earning a GED.
Noah’s journey since entering foster care has been far from easy. He navigated multiple placement changes, hospital visits, and the death of his uncle with whom he had stayed in touch since entering foster care. Despite the many hardships in Noah’s life, Jenny sees the kindhearted, creative child underneath all the pain and loss.
With the support of Jenny’s advocacy, Noah has made significant steps toward healing and independence as he approaches adulthood. He has been working on earning his GED, attending therapy regularly, spending time with friends, and even playing guitar again–a hobby he had abandoned after being kicked out by his parents.
While Noah is still navigating challenges with mental health and adjusting to the ways his life has changed, he knows that he doesn’t have to face these challenges alone. Jenny has made it clear to Noah that he deserves safety, support, and acceptance.
*Names, photo, and some details have been changed to protect confidentiality.
This story is featured in the Summer 2026 edition of CASA Connect, CASA of Kent County’s quarterly newsletter. Click here to view a pdf version of this newsletter.
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