It Takes a Village: Stories from the Heart of CASA
At CASA of McHenry County, every child we serve has a story—and so does every Advocate who walks alongside them.
In this season of giving, we’re honored to share four powerful moments from Advocates of the Month.
These stories reflect what it truly means to show up, stay present, and be the voice a child can count on—no matter what..
Viv — When Everything Felt Uncertain
There are four children in this family, and for a long time, their future felt fragile. Would they be separated? Would they lose the only home they knew?
Fear hung in every conversation.
So I showed up.
I listened. I slowed things down. I made sure the children weren’t forgotten—that their voices were heard when it mattered most.
When things reached a breaking point, I was invited into a critical court meeting—not because I had to be there, but because the team trusted I could speak to what the children needed.
Walking through that season with them wasn’t easy. But it mattered.
Because in times of uncertainty, children deserve someone who will show up—and stay.
Greg — Being the Constant
This is my first case as a CASA Advocate, and the child I support has already lived in two residential placements—places far from anything that feels like home. Some days, they can’t talk to their mom. Those are the hardest. So I make sure I’m there.
I show up. I stay in regular contact. I want this child to know that even when everything else changes, there’s one adult who hasn’t gone anywhere.
In meetings, I speak up—especially about mental health and how every move impacts them. After a recent court hearing, I learned my report helped others truly understand this child. That meant everything.
I don’t do this because it’s easy. I do it because every child deserves someone who stays.
Bob — Meeting Them Where They Are
The children I advocate for are all in different situations—one in a residential facility, two siblings adjusting to a new home. What they share is uncertainty.
So I meet each child exactly where they are.
Sometimes that means listening. Sometimes it means helping them look forward to something—like a summer activity that brings a sense of normalcy.
When family visits became possible, I helped ensure everyone communicated clearly so those moments felt safe and supportive.
Advocacy requires flexibility. Needs shift. Situations change. But my commitment stays the same.
I show up—because when everything else feels uncertain, children need someone who won’t waver.
Jennifer — Showing Up with Heart
This is my first case, and I advocate for two teenage girls living in separate placements—both carrying deep emotional pain.
Some days, talking is hard. So we color. We knit. We play music. I’ve learned that advocacy isn’t always about words—it’s about creating space for healing.
When one placement struggled, I didn’t wait. I worked with the caseworker and team to build a stronger plan—one that helped the child and the caregivers feel safer and more supported.
Their needs change, so I stay flexible.
I show up with patience, creativity, and an open heart—because no child should have to navigate trauma alone.
As we close our 20th Anniversary year, these stories remind us that advocacy changes lives—but it only happens when a community comes together. Right now, your year-end gift can go twice as far thanks to a generous matching donor who will match every donation, dollar for dollar, up to $20,000, through December 31.
Your support helps ensure that more children in foster care have someone who will show up, speak up, and stay—no matter how uncertain the road ahead may feel.
Be part of the village. Double your impact today.
DONATE HERE