When we look back on our childhood, many of us can point to key people who encouraged, guided and supported us, and helped us get where we are today. Too often, though, the children CASA programs serve in the foster care system are forced to go through an incredibly difficult time in their lives while far away from their family, friends and mentors. 

The holiday season is a time when many of us gather with loved ones, reflect on what we’re grateful for, and celebrate the warmth and comfort of family and community. But for children in foster care, this season can be especially hard — a reminder of what they’ve lost and the uncertainty that lies ahead. Amid the twinkling lights and festive celebrations, many of these children are wishing simply for stability, safety and someone who cares.

During this season of giving, consider becoming a CASA volunteer and making a lasting difference in a child’s life. 

Local CASA Program Spotlight: CASA of Galveston County

For Marte Hersey, the decision to become a Court Appointed Special Advocate for children in foster care began years before she officially volunteered. While working at UTMB Health, she encountered children in the pediatric unit who were in Child Protective Services custody, witnessing their difficult circumstances and the many professionals involved in their care. Seeing CASA volunteers advocate for those children led her to sign up after she retired. That decision has guided Hersey to advocate for 17 children of all ages over the past eight years. Each case has been unique, from infants and toddlers to adolescents navigating tough times. For Hersey, volunteering with CASA is about keeping a promise and seeing it through, no matter the challenges. 

Texas CASA Staff Spotlight

Amanda began her career as a middle school teacher and museum educator, where she discovered her love for creating engaging learning experiences and connecting with people. Today, she brings that same energy to Texas CASA as the Learning and Education Specialist, developing trainings and resources that support staff and volunteers working with children and families. She joined Texas CASA in April 2024 and was inspired by the mission of CASA and the opportunity to strengthen the mission through learning and development.

Learn about Amanda's new Sharpening Skills webinar series, which discusses important topics like transitions, mental health and supervision, her recent updates to CASA College and more at the link below.

Save the Date for Giving Tuesday!

Mark your calendars for Giving Tuesday on December 2, 2025! This day of generosity brings people together to support the causes they care about the most. Your support during Giving Tuesday helps Texas CASA's mission to support local CASA programs with training, community awareness, resources and public policy to make a positive difference in the lives of children and families in Texas.

As Giving Tuesday approaches and we move into the season of gratitude, make sure to stay connected with us on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn.

Reminder: Your Employer Might Match Your Donations

Did you know many companies match donations? Use the company search tool on our website to see if yours does. Thousands of companies will match donations made by their employees, retirees and even employee spouses. Search now to access your employer’s matching gift forms and complete the simple process to drive additional support toward our cause. If you made any donations to us this year, you have until the end of the year to submit them for a matching donation. You could double any of your donations made this year!

New Continuing Education Podcast on Health Advocacy

In this episode, we’re honored to be joined by Ellen DaSilva — entrepreneur, children’s health advocate and founder of Summer Health, an innovative company providing 24/7 text-based pediatric care for families. Ellen shares the powerful vision behind the Summer Health model, her insights into the barriers children and caregivers face in accessing timely healthcare, and practical advice for CASA volunteers striving to ensure the children they serve receive the medical and mental health support they need. 

Celebrating Generosity and Impact

We’re incredibly grateful to TXB Stores and McCraw Oil & Propane for their continued support of Texas CASA and our local CASA programs through the Doyce Taylor Memorial Annual Fishing & Golf Tournament. Their generous donation and commitment will help 16 local CASA programs, ensuring that children and families in the foster care system have strong advocates by their side.

This annual tradition continues to make a meaningful impact, and we’re grateful to everyone who helps make it possible. Together, we’re building brighter futures for children and families in foster care!

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