Jan 23 2025

Meet Volunteer Advocate Jennifer

By Sara Blake

 For over two decades, CASA volunteer Jennifer has dedicated herself to advocating for children in the foster care system. With a degree in psychology from Texas A&M University, she initially explored various fields, including interning at the Rape Crisis Center, the Center for Battered Women and Children, and the advertising firm, The Matthews Group. While she found the psychology of advertising fascinating (“I’ve always been fascinated with human behavior- why do people do the things they do?”), Jenn’s true passion was always in helping others, especially women and children.  

After a brief venture into politics, her heart eventually led her back to advocacy. In 2004, she attended the CASAblanca Gala, where she was introduced to CASA’s vision. “That night was magical for me because I found my people,” Jennifer remembers. “I fell in love with how volunteers could help children in the system. I immediately signed up for training and hit the ground running!” 

As Jennifer’s life has changed over the years, she transitioned into a Family Finding role. Family Finding Volunteers support traditional CASA volunteers by conducting extensive research to help locate and engage appropriate relatives for children in the system.


Throughout her years with CASA, Jennifer has worked on dozens of cases. “A specific case that comes back to me often was a teenager who ended up being placed with a new family in a different city,” shares Jennifer. “I remember how nervous they were about starting at a new school and job. But a few months later, they called me and said ‘I just had to tell you I got a job in an industry that I never imagined I would be in, but I’m doing well and about to be promoted. I knew you’d care, Jennifer, because CASA always cares.’ Hearing that reinforced for me the true purpose of this work – being consistently there for a child and giving them hope for their future.” 


As Jennifer’s life has changed over the years, she transitioned into a Family Finding role. Family Finding Volunteers support traditional CASA volunteers by conducting extensive research to help locate and engage appropriate relatives for children in the system. These connections not only preserve a child’s family history and support system, but often lead to a safe, permanent home with family. The role has given Jenn more flexibility while still allowing her to remain a big part of CASA. “I love finding these family connections and giving children a stronger sense of belonging.” 

“Volunteers are never left to navigate their cases alone; there’s always a supervisor available to offer guidance,” says Jenn. “The staff’s kindness and support make the job feel less like a solo endeavor and more like a team effort.” 

Jennifer is often asked how she manages to handle the emotional challenges of volunteering without becoming overwhelmed. Her answer is simple: "I’m human, and I feel all the emotions—anger, sadness, compassion—but I’m here for the best interest of the child. That keeps me focused and professional." Her guiding principle is to ensure each child feels safe, respected, and heard. 

Jennifer also credits the ongoing support and training CASA provides. “Volunteers are never left to navigate their cases alone; there’s always a supervisor available to offer guidance,” says Jenn. “The staff’s kindness and support make the job feel less like a solo endeavor and more like a team effort.” 


For anyone interested in becoming a CASA volunteer but unsure about the emotional toll or time commitment, Jennifer’s advice is simple: “Attend an information session, take the training, and really learn what CASA is about. You’ll be surprised how easily you can fit it into your life.” She’s seen firsthand how CASA’s support and training make the process manageable, and how volunteers quickly become part of a positive, supportive community. 

After two decades of advocacy, Jenn remains committed to her role with CASA, proud of the work she’s done and the lives she’s impacted. “It’s a life-changing experience, and one worth pursuing. You really can make a difference,” says Jennifer. 

“CASA has been such a blessing in my life,” she reflects. “The staff is filled with intelligent, compassionate, and motivated individuals. When you join, you immediately become part of a team.”  

After two decades of advocacy, Jennifer remains committed to her role with CASA, proud of the work she’s done and the lives she’s impacted. “It’s a life-changing experience, and one worth pursuing. You really can make a difference,” says Jennifer. 


CASA of Travis County's Family Finding Program is partially funded by The National CASA/GAL Association for Children

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