This month, Child Advocates is spotlighting CASA Payje for her commitment to going above and beyond for our foster youth.
CASA Volunteer: Payje
Years of Service with Child Advocates of Silicon Valley: 1
Number of Children Served: 1
GROWING AND LEARNING
With love to give and an understanding of the importance of giving back to your community, Payje decided to become a Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) to help ensure that foster children in Silicon Valley have a trusted adult they can depend on.
During her first year as a CASA, Payje has been working with an energetic and sweet toddler named Kendall. Some of their favorite activities to do together include going to the park, library, and Child Advocates-sponsored events like the Kids Extravaganza.
As Kendall enters a major stage of learning and growth, Payje is helping her expand her skills, providing access to nature to broaden her vocabulary through identifying items outside, collaborating with her caregiver on potty training, and activating Kendall’s listening skills.
“Every time I see her, she is learning something new, and so getting to witness her grow and learn new things has been really exciting and a favorite memory of mine,” she says.
AN UNDERSTANDING, SOFT HEART
In this process, Payje has learned that one of the most important elements of support for your foster child is showing up with an understanding, soft heart. Foster children and families go through many adversities and changes, and it’s important that they never feel judged during the process.
“Being Black and being from a community that has historically been oppressed and economically disadvantaged, I have a softer heart to understand struggle. As a black individual, I understand the importance of approaching families and foster youth with empathy and without judgment. My lived experience as a women of color has deepened my compassion and strengthened my commitment to supporting those in our community who need it the most.” says Payje.
Working with foster youth can be challenging, but Payje knows that she is not alone. As she continues on this journey as Kendall’s CASA, Child Advocates is there every step of the way, helping connect her with the right people and resources to support her foster youth in the best way possible.
“Tapping into my supervisor will be really important in the next phases of transition of housing, school, and helping with supplies like diapers,” says Payje. “With this being my first case, they have been a huge help with answering all my questions, and helping me feel more comfortable talking to parents and caregivers.”
WE NEED MORE CASAS
Payje’s unwavering support and love for Kendall will make all the difference in her journey in the foster care system. At any given time, there are over 800 children in the Santa Clara County foster care system, and with your help, we can support them so they too can have a consistent adult in their lives they can depend on, like Payje.
“You just have to be ready to make that leap and commit to the process. The process goes quickly, but you just have to be ready to make that commitment, and once you have the time and the capacity, they need your help. So just go for it!”
Take the leap and attend one of our virtual info sessions today! Learn more: https://childadvocatessv.org/volunteer/
*Aliases were used to protect the privacy of the child.
FUN FACTS:
TV Show Recommendation(s): Childhood Cartoons & Bob’s Burger
Favorite Movie: My Girl
Currently Reading: The Hunger Games Series
Favorite Music Artist: India.Aerie & Beyonce
Favorite Type of Food: Thai food
Favorite Place: National Parks
Favorite Hobbies: Spending time outdoors—hiking, backpacking, camping, and enjoying nature like waterfalls, rivers, and creeks.