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As an intern at CASA, I had the opportunity to be part of a cause that I deeply care about: the well-being of children in foster care. Every day brings new challenges, opportunities, and a deep sense of purpose. Whether it's advocating for a child in court or offering a listening ear to a young person facing difficult circumstances, the role of a CASA intern goes beyond just supporting a program—it's about giving a voice to those who need it the most. In this blog post, I'll share my journey, the lessons I've learned, and the profound impact this internship has had on me, all while shedding light on the critical work CASA does for children in the foster care system. When I first heard about Brightside CASA, I knew it was an opportunity I couldn't pass up. I've always been passionate about helping others, especially children who face challenges beyond their control. The first day I walked into the office, I felt excited and nervous. I was ready to make a difference, but I had no idea how much this journey would change me as a person. What stood out to me most was the responsibility of advocating for these children in court. Realizing that my observations, notes, and interactions with these children could help shape decisions about their futures was surreal. I had to be both a careful listener and a vocal advocate, ensuring that the judge and the other professionals in the courtroom understood the child's perspective and best interests. I realized that I might not always have the power to fix a child's situation, but I have the power to make sure their voice is heard. This internship taught me more than I could have imagined about advocacy, empathy, and resilience. As a CASA volunteer, I realized how important it is to listen deeply and without judgment. Often, children just need to feel heard, which can be more powerful than any advice or intervention. Working with children who have been through trauma is not a quick fix. Progress takes time, and learning to celebrate small victories became an essential part of the process. It’s easy to want to step in and fix everything, but sometimes, the most effective advocacy is standing beside someone and giving them the resources they need to succeed on their own. This is something I continued to work on the balance between offering guidance and empowering independence. The impact this internship has had on me is profound. I came into this experience thinking I would help children in the foster care system, but I've found that the experience has shaped me as much as it has shaped the children I've worked with. It's taught me to advocate for those who often don't have a voice, and it's given me a deeper understanding of how the systems around us affect individuals. Reflecting on my time as a CASA intern, I’m grateful for the opportunity to contribute to an organization that plays such a crucial role in the lives of children in foster care. I’m thankful for everything I learned at CASA and the opportunity I was given to contribute to such important work. This experience deepened my understanding of the foster care system and the chance to grow professionally and personally. As I continue in my career, the lessons I learned about empathy, advocacy, and the importance of your voice in a child’s life will stay with me. Even after my internship ends, I will carry these lessons forward in my future career and personal life. For anyone interested in CASA, whether it’s through volunteering or interning, I highly recommend it. CASA has shown me the power of community involvement and the difference one person can make in a child’s life. CASA is truly a place where you can make a difference in a child’s life.
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