This month, Child Advocates is spotlighting CASA Bob Martinez for his commitment to going above and beyond for our foster youth.
CASA Volunteer: Bob Martinez (BAHB mar-TEE-nez), he/they
Years of Service with Child Advocates of Silicon Valley: 1
Number of Children Served: 1
A Life of Service
Dedicated to a life of service, registered nurse Bob Martinez was ready to take the next step in his service journey by becoming a Child Advocates Court Appointed (CASA) Volunteer.
A Rhode Island native, Bob was first introduced to working with foster youth while working as a nurse in multiple group homes. Seeing the impact CASAs had on the youths in those homes influenced him to take the step to become one.
“I saw the difference that the CASAs made in these kids’ lives. Comparing the kids who did not have CASAs or someone checking in on them, and contrasting that with the kids who did have a positive adult in their life, really made a huge difference. And I’m humbled to be able to do that for this kiddo.”
For the past year, Bob has been serving as a CASA to Chris, an out-of-county teenager who has been in the system for several years. During their time together, Bob and Chris have worked through multiple placement changes, educational challenges and getting adequate resources for him.
Going the Extra Mile
While Bob only visits Chris* once a month, they have still been able to create a connection that gives Chris a safe space outside of the home. Prepared to be in Chris’s life for several years, Bob makes extra time and effort to show up for his youth in all aspects of his life—becoming Chris’s educational rights holder, attending Child Advocates’ trainings and connecting with his supervisor to ensure he’s showing up for Chris successfully.
“The monthly check-ins with my supervisor are really helpful to bounce the case off of somebody else and get a different perspective,” says Bob. “ My supervisor has done a great job connecting me with resources. We were actually able to get my CASA kiddo a bike donated, which was really great, and he’s loved that experience.”
The relationship between a CASA and their foster youth is important. By supporting them in everyday challenges, CASAs are creating collaborative relationships where foster youth feel seen and heard. A standout memory for Bob was when Chris finally felt comfortable enough to reach out to Bob for advice. It was a breakthrough moment
“I really think that being able to be there for him and just SHOW UP for him has helped to guide him towards making better decisions.”
Dive In and Become a CASA
Becoming a CASA has been a rewarding experience for Bob, and he encourages those who are interested in volunteering to lean on Child Advocates for support—everything else will work itself out.
“Just roll up your sleeves and dive in. Just being there and showing up consistently for these kids is all that’s really needed.”
Take the next step in becoming a CASA and SHOW UP for foster youth who need you today!
*An alias was used to protect the privacy of the child.
FUN FACTS:
TV Show Recommendation(s): Will and Grace
Favorite Movie: The Marvel Series
Currently Reading: Blink by Malcolm Gladwell, Think Again: The power of knowing what you don’t know by Adam Grant
Favorite Music Artist: Todrick Hall
Favorite Type of Food: Sushi
Favorite Place: Venice, Italy
Favorite Hobbies: T-shirt making with his partner
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.
- Register for the O’Leary Golf Classic taking place this August 25th at Boulder Ridge Golf Club in San Jose, CA.
- 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.
- Follow us on social media on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and LinkedIn.