A Family Reunified, Bonds That Endure
When 6-year-old Mark* returned home to his mother after 18 months in foster care, he was full of energy, curiosity, and happiness to be back where he belonged. Though the journey hadn’t been easy—he was behind in school and working through the trauma of separation—Mark was still very much a kid at heart, eager to play, learn, and love. His mom, Cindy*, had worked incredibly hard to bring him home, doing everything asked of her and more to create a safe, loving space for him to return to.
CASA Advocate Judy’s first meeting with Mark and Cindy was at the family’s home. Mark walked right up, extended his hand, and said, “Would you like a hug?” Cindy, who had asked for a CASA, was warm and welcoming. The three of them headed out for hot chocolate that day—and right away, they started building trust and connection.
Judy spent time getting to know them, picking Mark up from school and planning fun outings to nurture his playful spirit. Their first big adventure was to the mall, where he joyfully raced through the bounce house and explored every corner. Later that evening, they met up with Cindy and had pizza, which Mark devoured with a big smile on his face.
Reading didn’t come easily to Mark. When Judy first met him, he didn’t know his letters and couldn’t write his name well. Books frustrated him, and he often felt discouraged. Cindy wanted to help him succeed and believed in his potential but wasn’t sure how. What she did know was how much she wanted her son to love learning.
With Judy’s encouragement, Mark’s mom continued reading to him without pressure. They focused on joy, not perfection. And slowly, things began to shift. Mark started choosing books himself. He grew more confident. And over time, he developed a love for reading—along with a love for visiting the library.
When the case closed in June 2024, Cindy wasn’t ready to say goodbye to the support Judy had provided. And she didn’t have to. At their final meeting, surrounded by social workers and professionals, Judy turned to Cindy and said, “I’m not going anywhere. You’re family now.”
In January 2025, just before the family moved about 2 hours away for a fresh start in a clean, safe two-bedroom apartment, Judy and Mark had one final outing in Santa Cruz—to the mall, of course. That morning, Mark excitedly woke his mom up at 6 a.m. so they could make a checklist of everything he wanted to do. (This from a boy who a year earlier could barely write his own name!) Together, Judy and Mark checked off items, ending the day by picking out matching heart-shaped keychains—each one holding half.
Today, Mark is riding his scooter, learning to skateboard, and continues to grow and thrive. Cindy and Judy talk or text every week and try to see each other once a month. Cindy is doing well and dreams of going back to school. She is proud of the life she’s created for her son—and so are we.
*Name changed for privacy
