CASA volunteers are often the only consistent adult a youth in foster care sees and each outing helps the CASA child feel heard and seen. It may take a variety of experiences for one to resonate and help the child or teen decide to talk openly.

One CASA after visiting the Musical Instrument Museum said: “My foster child (age 13) was a bit overwhelmed and quiet during the visit, but afterwards spontaneously expressed his appreciation for being able to see (and hear) so many instruments.”

Said another CASA: “Can’t thank you enough for these opportunities for her. This program has been a blessing to her and allows me so many opportunities to take her out and get to know her so much better than if we just went to a park or sat in her living room.”

Building trust for one volunteer meant finding a way to help her appointed child believe she would return since so many others had not. To build that trust, the CASA brought a simple charm bracelet for the child and provided a new charm at each visit. The charms brought giggling excitement at each visit, but more importantly became a visible reminder of the CASAs continued commitment.