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Art and Carol Oppenheim, “A positive impression can be made on the life of a young person if you just take the time to care,” was how Art and Carol Oppenheim described their volunteer experience with CASA. Art and Carol are recently retired and have always considered themselves to be volunteer-oriented. Art had a career in insurance and was also the Mayor of Brentwood. Carol was an early childhood education teacher for 20 years. After learning about the need of CASA volunteers through a friend, the Oppenheims believed they could help make a difference. Upon completion of their training courses last January, the couple chose their first case as a co-CASA team. They felt compelled to take the case of a 12-year-old boy named James who had been in the court system for eight long years. Like James, many children don’t have the advantage of having a CASA volunteer to listen and speak for their needs. Their first case made them realize how critical the need is for CASA volunteers like themselves. Art and Carol like to visit James at least once a week at the residential facility where he lives. “We believe that our time spent with James provides him with better stability and confidence for his future,” said Art. “We always encourage him to do his best, and we let him know we are there to help him,” said Carol. During a typical visit, Art sometimes will shoot baskets with James or play cards or board games that he really enjoys. Like most kids, James also likes going out for fast food and ice cream! Art and Carol attend Court with James approximately every six months and meet often with teachers, therapists and social workers involved with his case. “It’s very heartwarming to see so many people in the system who truly care and want the best outcome for these kids,” explained Art. Our role as CASAs has been a very positive experience in our lives. Some of these kids have no one else to be an advocate and friend. The Oppenheims hope they can look back on this experience someday and know they made a difference for James and other just like him. “It’s not fair that these children have to go through this, and we want to do everything we can to work towards the ultimate goal. – finding permanent and loving homes for them.” |
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