This is part one of a two-part series. In this half you will hear Michael describe his experiences with the foster care system and Rhode Island CASA and share how he was able to overcome the odds. In part two you will hear from the two men who helped Michael get where he is today.

Helping Youth Succeed: A Former Foster Youth's Story

This series of National CASA podcasts provides information that will improve your ability to advocate for abused and neglected children.

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The National CASA Association and the National Council of Family and Juvenile Court Judges (NCJFCJ) have an extensive collaborative history in working towards permanency and well-being for children.  Sworn in as President of NCJFCJ in July of 2014, and an active supporter of CASA, Judge Peggy H. Walker talks about this relationship and shares her expertise on working with infants and toddlers, brain science and judicial leadership involving abused and neglected children.

Partners for Permanency

LaDonna Wattley, founder of Wattley Training Institute and former Volunteer Director with Child Advocates, Inc. in Indianapolis, IN, has used her vast experiences in the child welfare, adoption and educational fields to develop in-depth trainings for others working in those fields, especially around working with families of color.  Listen to Ms. Wattley discuss cultural competency and other important things to consider when working with children and families.

Working Towards Cultural Competency

Sharon Nelson and John Simek have been busy as the President and Vice President of Sensei Enterprises, Inc., a successful digital forensics, information technology and information security company. Their schedules just got even busier as Sharon was elected President of the Virginia State Bar. When they were looking for a rewarding, hands-on way to help others, they found a natural fit with Fairfax CASA in Fairfax, VA.  Listen to Sharon and John share their experiences as CASA volunteers, learn tips on working with the legal system and keeping things confidential using online technology tools, and hear their thoughts on using Skype as a tool to meet with CASA youth.

Technology and Advocacy

To celebrate the 50th anniversary of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s "I have a dream" speech, members of the National CASA Facebook community have shared their dreams for future generations of children.  Listen to the final week of a four part audio collage recorded by National CASA staff, featuring the voices of Marleisha Cox, YWCA GirlsFirst intern, and Ellis, son of National CASA staff member Jill Wiedenhoft.

I Have a Dream - audio collage series week 4

In this podcast, National CASA chief program officer, Sally Erny reflects on her experience and inspiration throughout her career. Listen to Sally talk about her 27 years of service to CASA and her vision for National CASA. National CASA is celebrating 35 years of volunteer advocacy; Sally is one of the 35 Faces that is making the life better for abused and neglected children.

Helping Youth Succeed: A Former Foster Youth's Story

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