1.)Tell us about yourself.
I have been married to Walter Everson for 27 years, and we have two sons—Ethan (25) and Miles (20). We also have two dogs, Finn, and Blu.
I spent the early part of my career in advertising and publishing. While raising my young children, I worked part-time from home. In 2014, I transitioned into working for our family business as Chief Business Officer of Zee Medical Service. We sold the business in 2021, and afterward, we focused on expanding our real estate business. We now own commercial properties, vacation rentals, and long-term rentals.
I also started a small nonprofit called Your Best Day Box, which provides up to 40 birthday boxes per month to Olivet Boys & Girls Club members. Each box includes everything needed to celebrate a birthday— a cake pan, cake mix, icing, soda (as a substitute for eggs and oil), a banner, balloons, and candles.
In early 2024, I returned to my childhood passion for riding and showing horses. In November, I purchased a new horse— a six-year-old Holsteiner named Churchill (aka Winston).
2.)What made you decide to take the steps to reach out to become a CASA?
I wanted to give back my time and decided that I wanted to focus on helping children, so I reached out to find out about being a CASA.
3.)Did you find that the CASA classes were enough to get you started with your first case? Did you feel supported?
Yes, I am happy with the training and support I receive from my supervisors.
4.)How nervous were you to meet the child involved in your first case? Does it get easier?
I was nervous the first visit, but the children were open and accepting and eager to spend time with me.
5.)How long have you been a CASA volunteer and how many cases have you had?
I’ve been a CASA advocate for one year and I have two children in the same household to which I am assigned.
6.)With all the different people involved in a child’s case: family, foster family, school, doctor, and caseworkers. How do you stay organized? Can you share any tips that would help a new CASA volunteer?
I document everything, keep good notes, and create calendar reminders to follow up.
7.)Is there an experience or a child’s action, in one of your cases, ever said or done something that has made you feel this is why I became a CASA?
After visit number five, I was not sure I was making an impact...but then she asked me how soon she would see me again. I said “In three weeks” and she replied "that is a long time to wait" At that moment I knew that she wanted the visits and looked forward to our time together.
8.)We all know that becoming a CASA is not all butterflies and roses so what would you say is the hardest thing about being a CASA and what keeps you coming back?
The hardest part is seeing how the children have been let down by the people who should love them the most. If I can show them that I will not give up on them and they can count on me, I hope that makes a difference in their lives.
