Hi! My name is Joseph Davalt and I was sworn-in as a CASA Volunteer on October 30th, 2024. Since then, I’ve been working on my very first case, which is still ongoing.

My journey to CASA started after my time as a foster parent. While that experience didn’t go as I had hoped, it left me with a deep desire to still make a difference. When I started looking into volunteer opportunities, CASA stood out immediately. It felt like the right way to continue giving back to children and families in need.

I’ll admit, one of the biggest surprises about being a CASA Volunteer is the sheer amount of paperwork. It’s a lot to manage! But beyond that, the role has taught me something important: you can’t be everything for everyone. There are moments when you want to fix it all, to be at every meeting, every event, to make everything right, but you have to remember that you’re not an angel. What matters most is staying neutral, honest, and focused on advocating for the kids and their families with integrity and compassion.

Of course, it’s not all hard moments. Some of the most heartwarming experiences come during the holidays. CASA and its volunteers go above and beyond to make the holidays truly special for every family we serve, and seeing the joy it brings is unforgettable.

If someone were thinking about becoming a CASA Volunteer, I’d tell them this: it’s a role full of challenges and frustrations. Especially with the systems and adults involved. Volunteering isn’t easy, and it’s not for everyone. But it’s also filled with moments that remind you exactly why you do it.