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Diane Givens, CASA Volunteer Although Diane Givens was just sworn in as a CASA volunteer in August of 2007, she has already made an enormous impact in the life of her CASA child, Angelica*. Angelica entered the foster care system as an infant as a result of her mother, Sharon’s*, continued substance abuse. Sharon finally agreed to speak to Diane after ignoring initial attempts, and Diane encouraged her to face her substance abuse issues. Gradually, Sharon began to trust Diane and work on her program of recovery. Diane said of Sharon, “My prayer is that she stays focused. Our team has put in a lot of hours, but it has been worth it to watch her gradually dig herself out of despair and guilt to become hopeful and determined.” Diane’s own determination and dedication to Angelica’s welfare, as well as the welfare of all children in foster care, has influenced her in many ways. “I hope to someday start a ‘safe home’ for some of the children who don’t have one. Until then, my goal and objective is to be a voice so that children don’t have to get lost in the ‘system.’ I have decided to take a local, hands-on approach.” Her volunteer work with CASA and other children’s organizations is perfectly suited to her professional life as the Early Literacy Coordinator for Parents as Teachers National Center. She provides support to local programs by developing and promoting literacy training and products as well as building partnerships with leaders in her field. She also serves as a Manager and Technical Assistant Consultant for the Family and Child Education (FACE) Program, working with the Bureau of Indian Education to provide technical assistance and program implementation of homebased services to 13 Native American FACE sites. Over the years, her work has put her in contact with other advocacy groups, including the Child Welfare League, Children’s Defense Fund, Children’s Trust Fund, National Black Child Development Institute and International Reading Association, where she is currently on the Early Literacy Committee. She has volunteered with the Family Support Network as a member of the Board of Directors, Edgewood Children’s Center, Girl and Boy Scouts, and currently spends much of her time in ministries at her church, First Baptist, focusing on the Bring Your Own Family Ministry and Destiny Children’s Church. Diane said, “In all of my volunteer opportunities, including CASA, I get to advocate for children to have all of their basic needs met in a safe, loving and learning environment. I direct my energy toward empowering and helping families have healthy relationships so that they can provide children with nurturing environments. I like the fact that I get to share my knowledge of child development and positive parenting along the way.” Diane assists Angelica in any way she can, working with the whole family to help find permanent housing, utility assistance, clothing and other necessary services. She spreads CASA’s mission to others in her life, networking for CASA at the National Black Child Development Institute Conference and volunteering at Whole Foods Market® for CASA’s Seventh Annual Giving Tree. Diane spoke about what CASA and her work with Angelica mean to her. “I am dedicated to Angelica’s case. What keeps me focused is that I know my role in this case can make a difference. I am enjoying being a consistent voice in her life. Being a CASA is unique and appealing. I have a voice of influence; I’m able to utilize skills and experiences from my current job and others. I show initiative, work as a team player and mentor. As a technical assistance consultant, I am a good observer, listener and communicator. I have to be gentle at times, but use a strong voice. As a CASA volunteer, I have to use these same skills. I have to be the strong voice for Angelica. I have learned an important lesson along the way: small steps and small victories add up to big gains. My understanding of family dynamics is growing. My experience as an advocate for Angelica has increased my appreciation of issues that families face. I have gained a new appreciation for how blessed my own life is. I will be involved in CASA in some capacity for a long time. I can’t imagine not doing this valuable work. It’s what I do naturally. I am proud of what we do – serving as strong voices for vulnerable children.” *Names have been changed to protect confidentiality. |
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