A Q&A series with Williamson County CASA board members and advocates, to learn more about why they support our organization.
"Laurie is someone who approaches every case with extraordinary diligence and has a strong heart for justice."
Laurie Vairetta
Laurie has served as a Williamson County CASA advocate for nearly five years. Since becoming an advocate in October 2021, she has worked 24 cases, completed nearly 100 hours of continuing education and driven more than 4,200 miles in service of children and families. She also serves in the Wrap Around Ministry at Church of the City and as a volunteer with the African American Heritage Society.
Laurie, Why CASA?
I serve as a CASA because of my desire to help vulnerable families in a practical and measurable way. Local service has always been important to me, and the role of CASA allows me to use my life experience and skills to benefit children in my own community.
What has been the most rewarding experience?
One of my most rewarding experiences actually happened years after a case had closed.
I was shopping in a local store when a woman approached me. She was the adoptive mother from one of my previous CASA cases, and she remembered me and the role CASA had played in her family’s story.
I had served as the CASA for a sibling group from the beginning of their case. I watched their journey move from a kinship placement, to foster care, and ultimately to the home of this woman and her husband, who chose to foster and then adopt the children.
I had the privilege of attending their adoption at Chancery Court and later celebrating with their family at their church.
Running into their mother years later was such a meaningful reminder that even after a CASA case officially closes, the story continues. It was incredibly special to see a family whose life I had been privileged to witness during such an important season.
What has been the most challenging?
The most challenging part is working with families who may not understand the importance of creating a stable and secure home for their children.
Financial insecurity, relational instability, addiction and family dysfunction can all have a profound impact on children. It can be difficult when the adults involved don’t fully recognize how those circumstances are affecting them.
What would you say to someone considering becoming a CASA?
I would encourage anyone who thinks they might be interested to meet with a current advocate and learn more.
I still don’t always feel 100 percent “qualified,” even after nearly five years, because every case is unique! But that’s also something I want prospective advocates to understand: you aren’t expected to know everything.
There is tremendous support from our Advocate Supervisors and from other advocates when a situation arises that is unfamiliar or especially challenging. You have people to turn to.
And if someone believes in CASA’s mission but doesn’t feel called to serve as an advocate, I encourage them to visit our website and learn about other ways to support the organization, including giving financially.
How do you spend your time outside of CASA?
My greatest joy is spending time with my two granddaughters, as well as enjoying time with family and friends and traveling.
Service is also an important part of my life outside of CASA. I serve with the Wrap Around Ministry at Church of the City and volunteer with the African American Heritage Society of Williamson County.
To learn more about our work at WCCASA, go here.