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Roslyn Henderson and Damarus Makondo, co-CASA Volunteers Since they began advocating for a group of five siblings in May 2004, co-CASAs Damaras Makondo and Roslyn Henderson have learned firsthand the difference that a committed team of CASAs can make. “Knowing that sibling cases are usually not CASA assigned as quickly, we were thinking that, as a team, we’d be able to take on a case where several children were involved,” said Roslyn. To make the challenge of advocating for five children more manageable, Roslyn works primarily with three of the children, while Damaras works with the other two. However, Damaras and Roslyn consult with each other frequently and work hard to maintain the family as a unit. As Damaras emphasized, “Our goal is to work together as a team to make sure these children maintain a connection with each other as much as possible.” For both Damaras and Roslyn, being a CASA has been challenging at times. Roslyn admits it takes effort to balance her CASA responsibilities with the demands of her work, church and family life. “It hasn’t been easy, but most things worthwhile require a little extra effort,” she said. Damaras has faced several challenges as a CASA, especially since her CASA children are still in need of permanent homes. As she explained, “It is sometimes difficult to help them understand why they cannot be part of a family.” Despite the occasional pitfall, Damaras and Roslyn have found great rewards in their CASA roles. When asked what she finds most rewarding about this volunteer experience, Damaras answered, “The opportunity to see the children begin to plan for the future and work hard to make positive changes in their lives because they are aware that somebody cares about seeing them succeed.” For Roslyn, being a CASA is fulfilling, because she can be a voice for her CASA kids, as well as be a supportive, listening ear. As she said, “I do believe that children have a voice, a voice that we adults need to slow down and listen to. I love being able to say that I am an advocate for children, and then actually do the advocating.” In addition to the satisfaction they have found in their role as CASAs, Damaras and Roslyn have found great benefits to serving as a co-CASA team. While working together on their case, they are able to get support and feedback from one another and to problem solve together. To those who are considering working as a co-CASA team, Damaras says, “The co-CASA opportunity will allow you to receive support from someone who understands and can help you stay focused when you sometimes feel the needs of the children are overwhelming. It is always good to have the perspective of a friend.” Both Damaras and Roslyn stress that being a CASA requires a sincere commitment. As Roslyn described, “Being a CASA is more than just a community service opportunity. CASA kids need people who truly have children in their heart.” According to Damaras and Roslyn, this commitment can be life-changing. For Damaras, her CASA involvement has helped her fulfill a lifelong dream to be a social worker. For Roslyn, the experience has encouraged her to consider a career in elementary education. Roslyn shared, “Children are my God-given ministry. Advocating for them fulfills my purpose.” Damaras echoed this, stating that her work as a CASA has given her “a purpose in life that extends beyond the mundane details of living. You really do receive so much more in return for the time you give.” |
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