See how we’re making a difference in our community.
We’ve been working hard to help the abused and neglected youth in our community find safe, permanent homes. Here’s what we’ve been up to lately:
Driven by a passion for supporting the Latino community, a bilingual CASA volunteer has spent nearly seven years advocating for a teenage girl in foster care. After the girl’s brother was reunited with his father, she remained in the system, relying on her CASA for stability and support. Committed to making a difference, the volunteer hopes more Hispanic community members will step up to be voices for children facing trauma and uncertainty.
After learning about CASA through Facebook, Isabel Monterossa became a Court Appointed Special Advocate, taking on the case of a 17-year-old girl from Puerto Rico abandoned by her father. Facing language barriers and limited school resources, the teen struggled until Isabel helped enroll her in an online school with ESL support. Now thriving academically and living with permanent guardians, the teen’s success fuels Isabel’s passion to recruit more bilingual volunteers to support foster youth.
Tanya Melendez, a Puerto Rican native and community advocate, channels her passion for helping others through CASA volunteering. As the Director of Community Outreach at the 18th Wonder Improvement Association, she understands the unique challenges families in Reading face. Inspired by her love for her daughter and a desire to support children in foster care, Tanya sees CASA as the perfect way to connect children with the opportunities they deserve.
Transitioning from a career in structural engineering to advocating for children, this CASA volunteer finds joy in creating stability for youth in need. While adapting to the complexities of dependency court was challenging, the support of fellow volunteers proved invaluable. Staying organized with meticulous records and a commitment to making a lasting impact fuels their dedication to changing lives—one child at a time.
After a rewarding career as a speech therapist, one retired professional found a new calling as a Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA). Motivated by her experiences working with children in foster care, she now dedicates her time to advocating for a young boy navigating the child welfare system. Her commitment, fueled by a desire to make a lasting impact, has transformed both her life and the child’s.
After a fulfilling career as a school psychologist and elementary school counselor, Marcy became a CASA volunteer to continue supporting children in need. Drawing from her professional experience, she serves as a stable advocate for children navigating the court system. Despite challenges like limited communication from caseworkers, Marcy finds joy and purpose in building meaningful connections and making a difference in young lives.
CASA Berks enrolled six new volunteers who will advocate for Berks County children who reside in foster care.
