As an architect and local business owner, CASA Volunteer Philip is familiar with problem-solving and thinking several steps ahead. Yet some of the most meaningful lessons in his life haven’t come from his career, but his journey as a parent.
With four children, including three adults and a middle schooler, Philip says parenting has taught him plenty through trial and error. “I had to learn a lot the hard way,” he shares. “I leaned heavily on local resources, counseling, and support systems to grow into something I wasn’t equipped to handle when I first started.” That experience became part of what eventually led him to CASA.
Now Philip brings that same empathy and perspective to the families he serves. He understands the importance of making sure families and placements are connected to every possible support and resource. “I know how overwhelming it can feel when you’re in the middle of a crisis,” he says. “A big part of my heart for CASA is taking what worked for me and sharing some of that hope with others.”
Philip listened as the youth began to share what was really going on in their life, including fears and worries. “It wasn’t just case stuff, but their actual world.”
Philip first heard about CASA through professional organizations and nonprofit connections in his architecture work, but a neighborhood sign also caught his attention. He joined CASA in January 2022 as part of the organization’s first in-person volunteer training class after COVID. “We were all just delighted to be together in person again, staff and volunteers alike,” he remembers.
One of Philip’s recent cases was with a youth who initially kept their guard up. “They told me up front that when they were ready, they would be real, honest, and loud,” Philip said. “Months later, I started to wonder if I would ever see that side of them. But one day I visited them at school, and they finally just opened up to me.” Philip listened as the youth began to share what was really going on in their life, including fears and worries. “It wasn’t just case stuff, but their actual world.”
“I believe there is always hope on the other side,” says Philip. “Sometimes people just need someone to help them see it.”
Though CASA’s training prepared him for potential difficult conversations and court proceedings, Philip has been pleasantly surprised by the collaborative spirit within the child welfare system. “I have been amazed at how professional and courteous everyone is: judges, attorneys, and social workers. It really feels like everyone is on the same team.”
Philip recalls the district attorney even taking extra time to help him feel prepared before a hearing. “He told me, ‘I’m not planning to call on you, but let’s walk through it just in case.’ Then, on hearing day, several parties didn’t show, and suddenly I was testifying. I was so glad we had prepared.”
For those considering becoming a CASA volunteer, Philip emphasizes how strong the support system is. “The materials, training, supervisors, and judges provide such a wealth of support. You are never doing this alone.”
“I believe there is always hope on the other side,” says Philip. “Sometimes people just need someone to help them see it.”
