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CASA/GAL VOLUNTEERS MAKE A DIFFERENCE

Maria

Born two months premature, Maria had multiple chronic respiratory and allergy problems. Her mother had mental health issues that prevented her from parenting Maria. The Children's Service Board located 53-year old dad, who although he had only maintained limited contact with Maria and her mother, wanted to become a parent to Maria and keep her out of the foster care. Children's Service Board worked up a case plan with dad and a CASA/GAL volunteer was assigned.

The CASA assigned had a medical background and was able to understand some of the medical issues involved in Maria's case. Although dad was attending parenting classes and visiting Maria weekly, the CASA/GAL was concerned about dads three pack a day cigarette habit. The CASA explained to the court about the dangers of placing a two year old with breathing problems into the home of a smoker. The CASA/GAL worked with dad to help him understand that Maria would need to live in an environment free of residual smoke and that smoke in the carpet, drapes, on dad's hands and clothes were not good for Maria's health. The CASA told dad that she wouldn't support his request for custody unless he made an honest effort to quit smoking. With work, dad was able to quit smoking and moved into a new apartment free of smoke residue and after an additional 12 months in foster care, Maria was turned over to dad's custody.

Jimmy

Jimmy was born to a homeless mother who tested positive for cocaine at delivery. Jimmy was placed in foster care and on a waiting list for a CASA/GAL volunteer to be appointed to his case. After 60 days in foster care, Jimmy was returned to his mom who had found a residence and was attending drug counseling. The Children's Service Board kept this case open under Protective Supervision and a CASA/GAL volunteer was assigned. From the beginning the CASA/GAL was concerned about mom's ability to not only take care of Jimmy, but also herself. The CASA/GAL advocated strongly that mom begin drug treatment and that Jimmy be returned back to his foster parents.

To date, mom continues drug treatment and it is hoped that one day soon she will be well enough to take Jimmy home.