A Q&A series with Williamson County CASA board members and advocates, to learn more about why they support our organization.
Chandler Farmer is the current President of the WCCASA board and an attorney at Thompson Burton. He and his family are long-time CASA supporters.
Why CASA?
CASA is personal for me. My mom has served as a CASA volunteer for more than 14 years (editor’s note: Tracy Farmer was just named 2026 CASA Volunteer of the Year by the TBA), so I spent years watching her pour into the lives of children who needed someone in their corner. I saw firsthand the difference a single, steady advocate can make for a child going through one of the hardest seasons of their life. That left a lasting impression on me.
Then, early in my legal career, I had the privilege of clerking for the Tennessee Court of Appeals. During that time, I worked on several cases involving dependent and neglected children, and I saw from the judicial side just how vital CASA volunteers are. Their reports matter enormously when a judge is making decisions that will shape a child’s future. Between my mom’s example and my own professional experience, joining the board felt like a natural way to give back to a mission I believe in wholeheartedly.
What do you wish more people understood about the children we serve?
I wish more people understood how many children right here in Williamson County need an advocate. This isn’t a faraway problem — it’s happening in our own community, and every one of these children deserves someone who shows up for them consistently and fights for their best interests.
What has surprised you most about our work?
What surprised me most is the sheer scope of what a CASA volunteer takes on. Before I became involved at the board level, I understood the basics — that volunteers advocate for children in court. But the reality goes so much deeper than that. CASA volunteers show up at school meetings, check in on placements, research services, and make sure nothing falls through the cracks.
They often become the one constant in a child’s life during a time when everything else feels uncertain. The level of commitment our volunteers bring is truly extraordinary, and it’s all done on a volunteer basis.
If someone can’t volunteer right now, how can they help CASA?
There are many ways to support CASA beyond volunteering as an advocate. Spreading awareness of our mission among friends, family, and coworkers is a great first step. Financial contributions, no matter the size, also make a real difference in helping us train and support our advocates.
How do you spend your time outside of CASA?
When I’m not working or serving on the CASA board, you’ll most likely find me with my family. My wife, Meg, and I have four young children, so life is busy — in a good way. I love helping coach their youth sports teams. Our family also loves exploring new places, so whenever we get the chance to travel and experience something new together, we take it.
To learn more about our work at WCCASA, go here.