Elena* was brought to the United States at 12 years old. She spoke only Mixteco and was not allowed to attend school. Instead, she worked in the fields.
When Family and Children’s Services intervened five years later, Elena was matched with Advocate Mary Anne. She was quiet and still learning English, and her limited schooling made reading, writing, and communication difficult. Yet Elena was extraordinarily hardworking and motivated, and she embraced every opportunity available to her.
Elena devoted herself to her studies and graduated high school. With Mary Anne’s support, she opened a bank account, learned how to file taxes, and gained experience managing everyday purchases and other responsibilities of adulthood. She also earned her driver’s license, giving her even greater freedom.
Elena and Mary Anne also made time to have fun. Together, they walked Mary Anne’s dogs, baked, went to the beach, ate at Elena’s favorite restaurants, visited the mall, and got their nails done. Mary Anne believed in giving youth “a little special treatment. Special attention.” For Elena, these outings offered a welcome break from work and daily pressures.
Over time, Elena gained confidence in communicating and setting healthy boundaries. She reconnected with family while staying firm about protecting her well-being and maintaining control of the money she worked so hard to earn.
Now 21, Elena has aged out of foster care and is back working in the fields six days a week. She previously tried attending Cabrillo College, but limited English and a lack of formal education made it difficult. Although she speaks conversational Spanish well, she is still developing the academic language needed for college coursework. For now, she is taking a short break from school.
When berry season ends, she hopes to enroll in adult education classes and continue working toward becoming a medical assistant. She is also searching for a more affordable apartment with Mary Anne’s support.
Although their formal CASA relationship has ended, Mary Anne will remain a natural support for Elena as she navigates the next stages of adulthood. Despite everything she has faced, Elena continues to charge forward, with Mary Anne right there beside her.
*Fictitious name
