The Gift of Advocacy

When law enforcement officers were called to the Wilsons’ apartment, they found the place in an unlivable state of disarray. Ms. Wilson, mother to eight-year-old Beth, had been having another severe mental health episode. Previously, Ms. Wilson had been investigated three other times for reports of substance use and Beth’s poor hygiene at school. Ms. Wilson had also repeatedly declined to seek treatment for Beth’s developmental delays despite receiving several referrals to specialists. After this final report, Beth was removed from her mother’s home and placed in foster care.

The judge knew additional advocacy would benefit Beth, so she appointed a court appointed special advocate named Stacy. Stacy immediately got to work, meeting with the foster parents and caseworker. Stacy built a caring relationship with Beth, becoming a consistent supportive adult during this tumultuous time. Beth has since been diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder, and Stacy has met with her therapist to ensure she receives proper care. Stacy’s advocacy has been instrumental in getting Beth the services and support she needs.

Ms. Wilson has begun the foster care agency’s parenting plan and is making progress toward reunification with Beth. Stacy has advocated for Ms. Wilson to take autism-specific parenting training to better meet Beth’s needs. While Ms. Wilson still has work ahead, Beth now has an unwavering advocate in Stacy to ensure she gets the support she deserves. Stacy’s commitment to Beth will help her develop resilience to cope with the changes in her life.

Advocates like Stacy provide an essential sense of hope for children like Beth. The generosity of CASA’s donors, volunteers, and other stakeholders makes vital advocacy possible. You can help bring this same hope to more children in Kent County by making a year-end gift today.

This story is featured in the Winter 2024 edition of CASA Connect, CASA of Kent County’s quarterly newsletter. Click here to view a pdf version of this newsletter.