from KSBW by Paul Dudley
SALINAS, Calif. — A local non-profit, aimed at helping kids in foster care and the juvenile justice system, is celebrating 30 years. Since 1995, CASA of Monterey County has been advocating for children, who can often feel forgotten.
As a child, navigating the challenges of these complex legal systems can seem like an insurmountable task.
“There were times I didn’t feel seen or heard,” said Jessica Maciel, a CASA volunteer and former foster kid. “It is so important because you are changing a child’s life.”
Because Maciel understands the difficulties firsthand, she volunteered with CASA or court-appointed special advocates.
“CASA is huge. I was a foster kid from age 5 to 18. And growing up, I didn’t have a CASA so just having that special person, that role model, that leader, that mentor really makes an impact,” said Maciel.
The group is celebrating 30 years in Monterey County, working one-on-one with children, providing them with a caring adult to help them through legal systems and to assist them with educational, medical, and therapeutic services.
“They are very complex systems, and we don’t want children to ever feel like they are slipping through the cracks or being forgotten,” said Titiana Ayala, an advocate supervisor with CASA. “Having someone in their corner can make a world of a difference.”
