At CASA of Santa Cruz County, Advocates play a vital role in championing the best interests of children in the dependency and juvenile court systems. Kerry McDonald, who became a CASA Advocate in Fall 2019, exemplifies the resilience, flexibility, and empathy that defines this critical work. Kerry’s dedication shines through her unwavering support of children while also recognizing and uplifting the efforts of parents, resource (foster) parents, and extended families striving to provide safe and stable homes.
Kerry’s first case involved an infant who unfortunately, due to the parent's substance use disorder, was removed from the parent's care and placed with grandparents. At the time, the pandemic brought unique challenges, but Kerry worked tirelessly to support the grandparents and parents, including advocating for more time for the parents to reunify. Unfortunately, the parents were unable to meet their reunification requirements, and the grandparents were unable to provide a permanent home. However, the grandparents found a loving family who were interested in adopting the baby. Kerry remained deeply involved—attending occupational therapy sessions and medical appointments. A year later, the baby was adopted by this caring family, with Kerry attending the celebration. “The adoptive parents deserve immense credit for their love and commitment,” Kerry shared.
Kerry’s second case involved a 10-year-old girl Darcy*. During the pandemic, since social services, schooling, and other supports all came to a halt, Darcy struggled with her mental health. When her grandmother needed help caring for Darcy—Darcy’s caregiver since the age of two—Darcy was removed from her care and placed with a resource family. Kerry’s advocacy was immediate and unwavering. She recognized early on that with the right services and supports, it was in Darcy’s best interest to be reunited with her grandmother. Kerry provided a consistent presence during this time, including driving Darcy to school, organizing playdates, and creating opportunities for joy, such as trips to the beach and skatepark. Within six months, the case closed, and Darcy returned to the loving care of her grandmother.
Currently, Kerry is co-advocating for infant twins placed with their grandmother. Kerry and her co-Advocate have become an amazing support to this family—bringing meals, picking up prescriptions, and even supporting the family during a harrowing hospital stay when the twins were treated for RSV. Their involvement underscores the profound impact of Advocates who not only champion children but also strengthen and support families with essential needs.
Kerry McDonald’s journey as a CASA Advocate reflects the essence of what it means to champion every child. Her work is child-centered, driven by the belief that every child deserves safety, stability, and love. Alongside this, she acknowledges the courage and determination of parents, foster families, and extended relatives who strive to create nurturing environments.
Through her flexibility, empathy, and patience, Kerry demonstrates the critical role of CASAs in bridging gaps and fostering resilience in a strained system. Her efforts remind us of the power of community in supporting children and families on their journey toward healing and stability.
*fictitious name
