Hi there!

My name is Judy Ackley, and I became part of CASA in 2005 in Garden City, Kansas. I volunteered there for two years before moving to Colorado, where I’ve since worked on 11 Dependency & Neglect cases and recently started on a Family Engagement case.

I first learned about CASA through two members of my church in Kansas. One was the Chairman of the local CASA Board, and the other was a foster parent who had worked closely with CASAs. I saw firsthand the incredible impact CASA Volunteers had on children, and after retiring, I finally had the time to help.

Of all the cases I’ve worked on, one stands out where I worked with a trio of siblings. Their mom was overwhelmed by their boundless energy, and their dad saw his role primarily as providing for the family.

Over time, the mom sought help, and the dad came to understand how demanding caring for the kids truly was. With the support of a home care professional, the mom returned to a better headspace, and the entire family began to thrive.

By the time the case closed, the parents and children were doing remarkably well. Several months later, I ran into the family, and the daughter ran up and hugged me tightly. It was such a joyful reunion and remains one of the highlights of my time as a CASA.

The saying “It takes a village to raise a child” couldn’t be more true. The work CASA does really changes lives—not just for children but often for their parents, too. Seeing the difference you can make is incredibly rewarding.

I hope others will consider becoming a CASA. It’s a chance to make a lasting impact on at-risk children and youth while helping families as they rebuild and grow stronger.