CASA Spotlight: Judy Coover

Age: 66 years

Hometown: My family moved around a lot in my childhood, but I guess I consider Lincoln, Nebraska, my hometown.

An adjective that describes you: Quiet

When did you first become involved with CASA Advocates for Children? I was assigned my first case in 2001. In 2004, at my request, Denver County and Arapahoe County CASA organizations agreed that I could take a Denver County case; I am still these children’s CASA.

What is your favorite part of volunteering with CASA Advocates for Children? Sharing the happy moments with the children and helping them through the tough times.

What has your work with CASA Advocates for Children taught you that you didn’t know before? The ineffectiveness of our country’s child protection system, the number of children in the system, and how many children end up being raised in the system. Being raised in the system should not be an acceptable alternative. The children are the ones who suffer, and they did nothing wrong.

What is something that you would want potential donors or volunteers to know about CASA Advocates for Children? When you, in your CASA role, need help, the Advocates’ staff is there for you.

Spotlight on: Macio Alston

Name: Macio Alston
Age: 34
Hometown: Born and raised in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. I’ve been in Colorado close to 20 years now though. Right now I live in Aurora.
An adjective that describes you: Fantastically Awesome. Just kidding…I’ll just go with handsome. Never mind that one is too obvious. How about – Focused, personable, determined, charming and funny.
When did you first become involved with CASA Advocates for Children? November, 2007
What is/was your favorite part of volunteering with CASA Advocates for Children? I enjoy each and every part of the “CASA adventure”. I enjoy the children, the parents, the courtroom setting, and the overall spirit of service. The children that I worked with (my case closed last month) are AMAZING. The opportunity to become part of a child’s life and make an impact is indescribable. I value the fact that the smallest gestures, as well as my time in general are very much appreciated. To pick a “favorite part” is tough, but I guess it would be the overall relationship that is created with the children and how much fun that leads to as it builds over time.
What has your work with CASA Advocates for Children taught you that you didn’t know before? This experience teaches me to appreciate the beauty of unexpectedness. No matter how much you prepare ahead of time you’ll never know how exciting the journey will be until you start driving down the road. I remember reading reports, memorizing names, and thinking of my “plan of action” before my first family visit. Only to have it go right out the window when the door opened and the kids starting jumping on my legs and showing off their toys. CASA gives me the opportunity to help others and learn a lot about myself as well.
What is something that you would want potential donors or volunteers to know about CASA Advocates for Children? You’ll never know the immense impact that you can make until you start the journey. The time and effort that you put into CASA is returned to you tenfold when you see the successes of the families and the smiles of the children. If you’re sticking your toes in the water right now my best advice would be to just “Jump In”…you won’t regret it.
A quote that you live by: “In order to succeed, your desire for success should be greater than your fear of failure.” Bill Cosby

CASA Spotlight: Matt Dickey

Name: Matt Dickey

Age: I am 34, will be 35 in December.

Hometown: I call Morrison, Colorado my home town, even though I was born on an Army base out of state. I spent most of my youth growing up in Morrison.

An adjective that describes you: Passionate!

When did you first become involved with CASA Advocates for Children? In February of 2008.

What is your favorite part of volunteering with CASA Advocates for Children? Spending time with my CASA kid and knowing that I am truly making a difference in his life. This position doesn't get any more rewarding than that!

What has your work with CASA Advocates for Children taught you that you didn’t know before? I've learned a lot about the court system and how to be patient with it. There are so many factors out of our control that we have to focus on what's most important for our kids. Sometimes it can be frustrating or feel like things aren't moving fast enough, but ensuring that our CASA kids are safe and in a healthy environment will have a lasting impact on their futures.

What is something that you would want potential donors or volunteers to know about CASA Advocates for Children? I want donors and future volunteers to know that this program truly makes a difference in many, many lives. The children that we work so hard for can and will ultimately benefit from the stability and support every CASA volunteer provides.