A Pause with Purpose: Reflections on My Sabbatical from CASA

After 10 years of dedicated advocacy with CASA, I recently took a sabbatical from my role at CASA. Stepping away from such meaningful work was not easy, but it was necessary for rest, reflection, and renewal.

CASA has been a cornerstone of my personal and professional life. I’ve witnessed the resilience of children navigating the foster care system and the incredible impact of having just one consistent, caring adult in their corner. The work is deeply rewarding, but also emotionally demanding. Over time, I realized that I needed space to recalibrate to continue serving effectively.

During my time away, I was able to travel, make some life changes, and connect with family. One of the most important family members to connect with was my grandmother. Unbeknownst to me at the time, this would be the last time I would spend with her before her passing in April. Spending that time with her was so meaningful and inspiring. My grandmother was the kindest, most giving, and caring person I have ever had the opportunity to have in my life. I remember so many good memories like her ginger snaps that the family would fight over on holidays. Or, spending weeks with her during the summer break. Her love for Savannah and numerous stories of her visits here with my grandfather and “the Gulfstream.” Her kind and beautiful soul, which everyone gravitated towards most importantly. 

Thinking of all the good memories with my grandmother and getting those last memories with her reminded me of how we need to fight for our children experiencing foster care. Many of them do not have the chance to live with or spend time with their biological families or make memories with them. They are forced to make new memories with strangers, although in the hopes that these strangers will become a part of their family. Our kiddos don’t always have those biological connections, whether it be with their parents, grandparents, cousins, etc. And that has to change! Regardless of the situation our children come from, they deserve to have their family connections. I am so thankful for our CASA volunteers who advocate fiercely for this normalcy for our children. Something some of us take for granted, but how would you feel if you were in their shoes, not knowing your family or not having those memories?

This sabbatical has reminded me that stepping back doesn’t mean stepping away. Sometimes, the most sustainable service is allowing ourselves room to rest and grow. I’m returning with a renewed commitment, fresh energy, and deeper insight into how I can contribute meaningfully to CASA’s mission and the lives of the children we serve.
To my fellow advocates: take the time you need. This work is a marathon, not a sprint. Rest is not a retreat—it’s part of the journey.
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About the Author

Mandy Roberts is the Advocacy Director for Brightside Advocacy's Savannah CASA. Mandy has been with the organization since 2015. Prior to her role at Brightside, she was a Case Manager at the Division of Family and Children Services. She has her Bachelors in Social Work from Middle Tennessee State University. When she isn't supporting her team and volunteers, she can be found walking with her fur baby, Braylee or enjoying a beach.