Friday, May 29, 2026, was a day filled with joy, hope and celebration as Santa Clara County honored five families during its annual Reunification Day.
Reunification Day recognizes parents who have overcome significant challenges and worked tirelessly to create safe, stable and loving homes for their children. It also celebrates the social workers, attorneys, advocates, volunteers and community partners who supported each family throughout their journey.
Hon. Shawna Schwarz, Supervising Judge of Santa Clara County’s Juvenile Dependency Court, led the celebration and recognized the strength and determination of the families being honored. Each family’s story served as a powerful reminder of what can happen when parents receive meaningful support, remain committed to their children and continue moving forward, even when the journey is difficult.
This year’s celebration was especially meaningful to Child Advocates of Silicon Valley because two of the youth whose families were honored were supported by Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) Volunteers. During the youths’ time in foster care, their CASAs consistently SHOWED UP by building trusting relationships with the youth, advocating for their needs and supporting both the children and their families as they navigated the foster care system and worked toward reunification.
For children in foster care, having a consistent and caring adult by their side can make an incredible difference. A CASA can help a youth feel heard, supported and less alone during a time that may be filled with uncertainty and change. Their presence can also strengthen the circle of support surrounding the entire family.
The celebration was organized through a collaborative effort among the Superior Court of California, County of Santa Clara; the Department of Family and Children’s Services; the Dependency Advocacy Center; Legal Advocates for Children and Youth; the Office of the County Counsel; FIRST 5 Santa Clara County; and Child Advocates of Silicon Valley. We are proud of the families honored this year and grateful to the CASAs, community partners and supporters who continue to LIFT UP foster youth and their families.
You, too, can make a positive impact in the life of a foster youth. Attend one of our information sessions to learn how you can become a CASA, or support our programs by making a financial contribution. Together, we can continue SHOWING UP for foster youth and celebrating meaningful moments like Family Reunification Day.