This month, we’re proud to spotlight Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) Volunteer Rhonda Barros. Rhonda was recently honored with the Helper’s Award by Susan Ellenberg, County of Santa Clara Supervisor, during this year’s TheKidsTable event.
CASA Volunteer: Rhonda Barros (RON-duh BUH-rohs) She/her/hers
Years of Service with Child Advocates of Silicon Valley: 5 years
Number of Children Served: 7
CELEBRATING COMMITMENT
Every year, Supervisor Susan Ellenberg honors people and programs that support children in the annual TheKidsTable event. This past March, our very own CASA Volunteer, Rhonda Barros, received the Helper’s Award for her exceptional dedication and hard work to LIFTING UP Santa Clara County’s foster youth.
The Helper’s Award recognizes individuals who make a positive difference in the lives of children and families, especially during difficult times. Rhonda’s dedication is an example of this, having served seven foster kids as a CASA Volunteer.
As a CASA, Rhonda has exemplified persistence and dedication by offering unwavering support for her foster kids. She maintains contact with caregivers, communicates with social workers and writes detailed court reports.
Rhonda SHOWS UP for her foster kids by attending milestone events, such as birthdays, to ensure they feel celebrated. She also assesses the developmental progress of the kids she serves and provides resources that can help them heal. This includes gifts from The CASA Store, culturally affirmative books and more.
Rhonda’s commitment embodies the spirit of empathy and compassion that defines our CASA Program. We celebrate her well-deserved recognition and the impact she’s had on the lives of Santa Clara County’s foster youth.
“The child I serve has shown tremendous improvement in her interactions with others since the last reporting period. In the past, she would scream and yell when I approached her to start our play activities. She would always run the other way. During our last visit, she brought her blanket to me and asked to sit on my lap. I was amazed when she looked at me and said, “I love you’.” -Excerpt from a court report written by Rhonda.
The presence of a reliable advocate in the lives of foster youth can bring about substantial positive outcomes, providing a steady anchor for them. If you would like to become a CASA Volunteer like Rhonda, check the last section of this post for more information.
FUN FACTS
TV Show Recommendation(s): Any BritBox show
Favorite Movie: Les Miserables
Favorite Music Artist: Adele
Favorite Type of Food: Filet Mignon
Favorite Place: Paris, France
Favorite Hobbies: Shopping
Support Foster Youth Today
Here are just a few of the ways you can SHOW UP for foster youth this month:
- Take the first step to advocating for foster youth. Attend an informational session to learn more about becoming a CASA Volunteer.
- Support our CASA Program and invest in our foster youth with a financial contribution. You can also check with your company to see if they match employee donations.
- Join us at the Black, White & Pink Ball! Enjoy a night out in your latest formal attire, as we celebrate the work we do to support foster youth. Purchase your ticket now.
- Become a Corporate Champion by sponsoring an activity or one of our fundraising events. Email us at development@childadvocatessv.org to learn how your company can be a part of the solution for foster kids.