24 San Antonio and south Texas citizens took the CASA oath this week.
SAN ANTONIO — Our friends at CASA (Child Advocates San Antonio) swore in 24 new advocates this week. They work to welcome 10 new classes each calendar year, and we were there as the newest advocates took the oath just days ago.
Bexar County Children’s Court judge Charles Montemayor handled the honor of leading the new advocates with the CASA oath. It is a volunteer job as important as any in the city. CASA workers advocate for what’s best for foster children in the welfare system. A calling that is on their heart to help our youngest that need it the most.
“I retired from teaching nearly two years ago and I really miss the interaction between the kids and the parents,” said new volunteer Sheri Teal. “I just thought this was going to be a good fit for me.”
You’ll often hear from newly sworn in advocates that becoming one was a calling that they felt in their hearts.
“It kind of touched us,” said new advocate Carlos Gonzalez. “What better way to support the most vulnerable than when they are going through some very scary stages in life? Any connection that we can make from the smallest person to the oldest person is going to be huge in a person’s life. I want to be able to make that difference.”
New advocate Rachel Jasso just retired after 31 years in education.
“I’ve always been around children whether it was through work or church,” she said.
“Who else is more deserving of our time and efforts than the most deserving,” added Rachel’s partner, Carlos. “Unfortunately they are overlooked and taken advantage of. Who else can benefit from somebody looking out for them.”
CASA CEO Angie White told us they have expectations of all their advocates. “We demand a lot from our volunteers, but these people have a smile on their face, and it is reciprocal. They will get lots from the children they serve as well as get a lot. It is a very special day. The judges love it. To have other family members here supporting their family members as they walk into this journey is amazing.”
Congrats to all the newest advocates and if you’d to learn more and or maybe become an advocate yourself just visit www.casa-satx.org.