2024 - The Inside Scoop

Stories from the heart of our work.

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We learn from those we serve


In 2024, I was again reminded of the wisdom we can learn from those we serve. I was driving in Richmond when a car started drifting into my lane. I didn't see it happening because the car was in my blind spot. However, my passenger (one of my Bridges youth) did! She quietly called my attention to the wayward car so that we were able to avoid an accident. After the incident the youth looked at me and said, "It's good to know that I don't have to shout in order for you to hear me." That statement stuck with me. It reminds me of why we do what we do. We listen to our families so they can be heard without them having to shout.

Gwen Jones
Bridges to Success Coach
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Home for the holidays


Both parents were drug-addicted. When their kids were removed, they enrolled in Family Recovery Court – and have now been sober for 7 months. "I am so surprised at how communication between my wife and me has become so clear and open since we are both sober. We suddenly understand each other". Then he admitted, “I have a new addiction, it's my AA meetings, I love those guys, and I am so happy to be in that group." I almost cried. A success like this seemed such a long shot in the beginning. But today their kids are coming home for a trial placement over the holidays. If all goes well - it will be a return home for the new year!!

Kati Naess
CASA Supervisor
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I value the PCASA family


This year has really taught me the importance of togetherness. I cannot overstate how much I have appreciated and valued being a part of the Piedmont CASA family and being surrounded by those with shared values, visions, and beliefs. It is reassuring that when times are tough and we begin to lose hope, those around us can empathize, understand and pick us back up when we need it most. To my colleagues and to our wonderful CASA Advocates, thank you. I believe that our togetherness only helps to benefit the work we do in serving our youth.

Rory Macgregor
Bridges to Success Coach
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Most impactful moment of 2024


While working a PCASA table at a community event this fall, a young couple approached with their little boy. I started to give them my pitch on becoming a CASA Advocate. They stopped me to say that they knew all about CASA because they had adopted their little one out of foster care, and he had a Piedmont CASA Advocate on his case. They raved about their Advocate and the care she showed for their little one throughout his time in foster care.

Kate Duvall
President and CEO
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The hardest cases I ever worked


2024? There were a lot of lows. And some of the hardest cases I've ever worked. But I'm reminded continually of the goodness in humanity when I get to work and connect with my Advocates, who keep showing up for their CASA kids, month after month. And the families I work with remind me there is always reason to hope.

Alison Taravella
CASA Supervisor
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Heartbreak and triumph


On August 21, 2023, I stepped into my CASA Supervisor role and felt a sense of purpose I had never experienced in any other position. As I look back on the almost 16 months I’ve been a part of Piedmont CASA, I am reflecting on the awesome Advocates I lead, the hurting yet resilient children they selflessly serve, and the inspiring leaders and veteran peers I follow. Recently there was a reunion of the Spring 2024 Class of CASAs. As they shared moments of heartbreak and triumph, I felt so inspired, so proud, so grateful for them all and the important work they do. It was a special and meaningful time for me - my first time being at a Reunion. They are representative of everything good about our Advocates, who are the cornerstone of our mission. As I look forward to 2025, I hope and pray that every child for whom they lovingly advocate will heal, grow and ultimately thrive. May their stories continue to be told and changed one outcome at a time. May their futures be bright and their possibilities infinite in 2025 and beyond.

Phyllis James
CASA Supervisor
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Challenges tempered by hope


Several situations this year verified that we are indeed working with humans within systems and processes that may not always match up with the reality of those living out the policies. These moments brought up feelings of frustration to see our young adults trying to navigate the lengthy, complicated paperwork needed to request a housing voucher, SNAP, or replacement identification (that also comes with a steep fee). It made me sad to see the eviction process in action or hear the fears of families with immigration status needs when I know the context of life’s challenges that led up to these moments. However, it also gives me hope that there are folks in the community who care and who come together to educate, brainstorm with, or support those in need during these complicated times. It makes me appreciate our advocates and staff who are ever working to be part of the solution—our connectors and navigators.

Leah Cole
Program Director
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Passion and a never-quit attitude


This has been a year of complicated cases - with legal maneuvers, high emotions, and navigating relationships within the social services teams and the system. Our volunteers sought guidance and did their advocacy work with grace, patience, and professionalism for their assigned children. Their passion and their never-quit attitude gleaned results that ultimately helped our CASA kiddos get the services, support, and permanency that they deserve. Thanks to all our CASA Advocates for their dedication, commitment and heart to serve.

Sherri Rosser
CASA Supervisor
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Sharing the dream and the work


When you work in an office full of people whose hearts and minds are focused on helping vulnerable children, the weight of a troubled world is easier to bear. Piedmont CASA is an oasis, a place where staff and Advocates share the dream and the work of building a better community for everyone.

Lexie Boris
Advancement Director
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Inspiring and busy


My first year with Piedmont CASA has been inspiring, full of growth, and extremely busy. I am thrilled to be part of a team who focuses on changing the story for children who have experienced trauma in our community. The work of our Advocates is unwavering and an essential support for vulnerable youth. I have been amazed at the level of giving I have witnessed this year - the Advocates, community partners, local business owners, and generous people who want to help make a difference. As the event coordinator, I am especially proud that we surpassed our fundraising goal for the Jimmy “Magic Man” Miller Bracket Breakfast and of the success of our inaugural year for Mustaches 4 Kids CVille.

Ann Douglas Irby
Event Coordinator
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Astronomically impactful


2024 has been a whirlwind of a year as I have become immersed in the daily life here at Piedmont CASA. This organization has always held a special place in my heart and having the opportunity to see the hard work of our Advocates play out in real life has been astronomically impactful. I've loved every minute of learning the various systems and working hard to meet the needs of our staff and community as a whole. I am looking forward to seeing what 2025 has in store now that I have a little experience under my belt!

Alana Pirrone
Office Manager
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Thriving in a supportive village


Joining PCASA this year has been an incredible journey of growth and learning. I’ve come to deeply appreciate the importance of teamwork and its profound impact on working with children and youth. It’s inspiring to see how much the population we serve thrives when surrounded by a supportive ‘village.’ This year has brought a whirlwind of emotions—from the highs of witnessing a young person exceed their own expectations to the lows of seeing them struggle with setbacks. Through it all, I’ve felt deeply fulfilled being part of this courageous, dedicated, and compassionate community.

Adè ‘Leke
Bridges to Success Coach