Soon after becoming a CASA Advocate a little over a year ago, Mary was matched with a five-year-old girl, Lucy*, who had been removed from her mother’s care because of severe neglect and placed with a resource family.
From the beginning, Mary understood that building a relationship with Mom would be important. Even while Lucy was living in a resource home, Mary made a point of meeting Mom to get to know her. During their interactions, Mary listened without judgment and took the time to build trust.
Mary and Lucy spent time together almost every weekend, visiting the beach, parks, museums, CASA House, and libraries. Along the way, Mary introduced Lucy to books. And before long, Lucy picked up a book during one of their outings and started reading on her own. It was a small moment that showed how much their time together had impacted her.
A few months ago, after more than a year apart, Mom and Lucy were reunited. Mom had done the hard work of completing all the court’s requirements, making it possible for Lucy to come home.
With reunification, Mary’s role as Lucy’s CASA Advocate will come to an end. During the time they spent together, Mary consistently showed up for Lucy and built a strong bond with her. Mom acknowledged that Mary genuinely cared about her daughter and could be trusted.
That trust has opened the door for Mary’s relationship with the family to continue. She plans to remain a natural support and friend to Mom and Lucy as they move forward together.
*Fictitious name
