The Moment I Knew I Made a Difference: CASA Volunteers Reflect

Every CASA volunteer remembers the moment they realized: “This is why I do it.”

It might come quietly; in a child’s first smile, in a thank-you whispered during a court visit, or in the moment a judge listens to your words and chooses a better path for a child in need. These moments are deeply personal, often emotional, and always powerful.

At CASA of Johnson County, we believe in the transformative power of everyday people standing up for children who cannot speak for themselves. It’s those unexpected, heart-stirring moments that remind you: you are changing a life.

In their own words, here’s how five volunteers describe the moment they knew they made a difference.

“They deserve someone in their corner.” – Carolyn Kamo

For Carolyn, becoming a CASA volunteer was a moral calling.

“I think it is everyone’s obligation to stand up for those who can’t advocate for themselves. As a CASA volunteer, I champion the children in our community who need it the most. They deserve someone in their corner who is there only for them.”

That “someone” becomes more than a name on a court docket. CASA volunteers build trust, consistency, and a sense of safety in a child’s life, just by showing up again and again. It’s advocacy rooted in presence.

“It’s encouraging to see the children grow.” – Kari Ryback

The impact of advocacy isn’t always instant, but it is lasting.

“Becoming a CASA has helped me understand the true hardships of underprivileged children. It’s encouraging to see the children grow and benefit from finally getting their needs met physically, emotionally, and relationally. CASA is a program that always puts children first.”

For Kari, witnessing the small milestones; healing, progress, trust; was the moment it all clicked. CASA doesn’t just speak for children in court. It ensures they are truly seen and supported in every part of their life.

“Our work contributes to restoring healthy families.” – Jan Fredbeck

The courtroom can be intimidating. But for Jan, it became a space where change was possible.

“It is rewarding to me to know that I am making a difference in children’s lives by becoming their voice in court. Our work as CASA volunteers contributes to restoring healthy families in our community.”

That’s the heart of CASA’s mission: advocating not just for safety, but for stability, healing, and, when possible, reunification. Jan’s moment of impact wasn’t just about speaking up, but about being part of something bigger: a community-driven effort to break the cycle of neglect.

“The judge listens.” – David B. Vornehm

David, an attorney himself, saw firsthand how vulnerable children can fall through the cracks in the legal system.

“The parents can be represented by attorneys. The child is represented by no one. Kids need someone who speaks only for them. I became a CASA volunteer to help protect kids and give them a voice—an ally who can speak directly to the judge and to whom the judge listens.”

He understood the gravity of that responsibility: children are often the only ones in court without legal representation. CASA gives them a voice, and in many cases, that voice changes everything.

“Give a child hope and help make a difference.” – Jeri-Lyn Line

For Jeri-Lyn, becoming a CASA wasn’t just about advocacy—it was about hope.

“Children with CASAs are less likely to spend long periods of time in foster care, are more likely to find a permanent home, and more likely to excel in school. Input from CASA volunteers assists the court in making sound decisions and ending the cycle of abuse. Become a CASA! Give a child hope and help make a positive difference in their future!”

Her moment came not in a dramatic courtroom scene—but in the data, the outcomes, and the ripple effect that one volunteer can create in the life of one child.

You Can Be That Moment

At CASA of Johnson County, we don’t just ask for volunteers. We ask for people who want to make a lasting difference.

Whatever your background is, your voice matters. The courtroom can be a confusing and intimidating place for a child. But with you by their side, it becomes a place of hope.

Your “moment” is waiting. So is a child who needs you.

Apply to become a CASA volunteer today—before the next training session begins. There is an immediate need, and your voice could be the one that changes everything.