One young man spent nearly his entire life bouncing in and out of foster care. While he watched his siblings find permanency, years of his life were spent moving across placements and residential facilities.

Five years ago, he was assigned a CASA Volunteer. Through every move, every setback, and every new environment, his CASA Volunteer remained a part of his life. Over the years, she became someone he could trust. She built relationships with every adult in his life; the staff, counselors, and caregivers. She advocated for his needs and desires. She never missed their regular meetings, phone calls, his birthday and holidays. Despite everything else in his life changing, she remained a consistent presence.

Like many youth who have experienced significant trauma, he carried wounds that were not always visible. At one point while living in foster care, he displayed behaviors that those around him struggled to understand, and eventually his permanency goal was changed to "unable to be provided for in a home environment." Even through setbacks like this one, his CASA Volunteer remained by his side; showing up for him, cheering him on, and advocating for him. 

Today, this young man is maintaining a job, he is a mentor to other youth living in his residential facility, and he recently called his advocate to share exciting news: he had qualified to begin transitioning to independent living.

His story is a powerful reminder that one caring adult can make a difference in a child's life. Across Illinois, CASA Volunteers provide the consistency, advocacy, and support that children need to navigate difficult circumstances and build brighter futures. 

Every child deserves someone who will stand in their corner. Learn more about becoming a CASA Volunteer in Illinois.