 Author’s note: This is the message I shared at our Creating Brighter Futures event. So many of you asked to read and pass it along—I wanted to share it with everyone. When my son was in middle school, he asked me not to come to school. He knew that if I showed up, someone might look at us and decide what he was. Not who—what. Overnight, he wouldn’t be just a kid; he’d be “the adopted kid.” He just wanted to be a kid. I think about that a lot—how fast a label becomes a wall. How many children learn to make themselves smaller so they won’t be pointed at. How many parents practice answers because they know the questions are coming. How many young adults carry a quiet, heavy secret: If you knew the systems that touched my life, would you still see me the same? Right now, more than 300 children in Chatham County are in foster care. And thousands of our neighbors have been in care, adopted, or otherwise pulled into the child-welfare current at some point. They bag groceries beside you. Sit in lecture halls near you. Clock in on the line next to you. Ordinary days, extraordinary weight. What they want isn’t complicated: to belong without a label, to be believed without mounting a defense, and to be understood without bleeding out their whole story to earn it. That is why Brightside exists. Every day I watch people choose love that looks like showing up. A CASA who keeps the third promise after the first two were hard. A Bright House staff member who kneels to a child’s eye level and makes room for a parent’s dignity. A Brighter Futures case manager who celebrates a first paycheck like a diploma—because for that young adult, it is. This work is tender. It’s practical. And it’s fragile. We’ve worked hard to rely less on government funding—moving from heavy dependence to under half of our budget today. That’s good stewardship. But the portion that remains still underwrites what can never be replaced: people. Programs don’t sit in courtrooms. Grants don’t hold babies. People do. Why Three Years In our community, three years often mirrors a child’s chapter in foster care. It is not their whole story—but too often it’s the loneliest one. A three-year commitment says, I’ll stay for this chapter—three birthdays, three first days of school, three holidays without wondering if help will disappear. Your steadiness tells a child, a parent working their plan, and a young adult after foster care: you are seen. That promise keeps doors open and rooms safe. It trains advocates. It protects visitation time. It turns “maybe” into “I’m ready.” How You Can Stay for the Whole Story
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 For as long as I can remember, my heart has been drawn to children—especially those who need an advocate. I’ve spent a large portion of my career in child welfare, working with children and families to protect and uplift them in their most vulnerable moments. I've worked within the systems designed to protect them, but I've also seen firsthand the limitations, the heartbreak, and the gaps that often leave kids feeling invisible. And for the past 5½ years, that commitment has continued through my work as a Court-Appointed Special Advocate (CASA). Becoming a CASA allowed me to stay connected to the mission that has shaped my life: being a voice for children who might otherwise go unheard. But recently, something beautiful happened that gave all this even more profound meaning. I recently became a grandmother to twins, and the first time I held them, I felt an overwhelming sense of love. I want to ensure their world is safe, nurturing, and filled with love and opportunity. Holding them reminded me so clearly why advocacy matters. Every child deserves to feel secure, cherished, loved, and supported as they grow. They need someone who will fight for their best interests and believe in their potential, especially when life gets complicated. As a CASA, I’ve walked alongside children and youth who have faced enormous challenges that no child should ever face: abuse, neglect, instability, and uncertainty. Many have been moved from home to home and don’t have a consistent adult presence to guide and support them. Becoming a CASA is one of the most powerful ways to make a lasting impact as you stand in the gap. You don’t need a special degree or years of experience; just a big heart and the willingness to show up for a child who needs you. Being a grandmother has deepened that sense of purpose in ways I didn’t expect. I look at my grandchildren and think about everything I hope they’ll have—stability, love, opportunity, support, and much more. I know these are the same things every child deserves, regardless of their circumstances.
 My name is Brittany Huff, I was born and raised in Connecticut. I am a wife and mother of three. As a youth I grew up in the foster care system. Being a child in the foster care system was difficult, especially trying to understand why I couldn’t be with my family but it ultimately led me to a passion for child welfare. As I navigated through adulthood, I was able to earn an undergraduate degree preparing me for a path as a social worker. Once I became a social worker I shortly realized that the role was not fulfilling the purpose I felt God had placed on my life. Not knowing which direction to go I left that position and went back to school earning a MBA and explored other career options. Still not feeling satisfied because I was not walking in my purpose, God pushed me to uncharted territories. That journey taught me to trust in God in all things, and here I am now! Joining Brightside Child and Family advocacy has allowed me to bring life to an old passion and aspirations. As a Family Support Specialist, I am honored to bridge the gap for families that have had struggles but are turning a new leaf. Families are able to connect and have a sense of normalcy because of Bright House and I am proud to be a part of the team. I have had the pleasure to supervise visits for new parents, and experienced parents that are in need of support, guidance, and advocacy. My role at Bright House and as a mother are interconnected at times because I can offer professional and personal insight that helps the families. My background as a youth that aged out of foster care gives parents a sense of relatability, and first hand experience that they can make a change to better the lives of their children. As a Family Support Specialist I have been able to give parents reassurance that through their hard work, reunification is an attainable goal. Other parents feel that my work has allowed them to realize that they are not alone with their struggles and that it is ok to accept help and guidance along the way. Some parents are just grateful that we are voices that can advocate for their needs and the needs of their children. Utilizing the Nurturing Parenting curriculum gives parents an opportunity to strengthen their knowledge and skills as a parent. It has been useful to help parents see things in a different perspective, and sharpen their parenting skills. I am very thankful to be a part of an organization that is founded upon core values that make a difference and strengthen families. With God all things are possible and I am now walking in my purpose and I see a brighter side of things! Rooted in Resilience: My Path to Social Work and Supporting Youth Aging Out of Foster Care7/24/2025  When I reflect on my journey, both personal and professional, one word rises to the surface: resilience. Not just my own, but the kind I’ve witnessed in the lives of the young people I work with at Brightside Child & Family Advocacy. Youth who have endured instability, abandonment, or trauma. However, they keep showing up, keep trying, and keep hoping. They are the definition of resilient, and they’ve taught me more about strength than I could have imagined. I didn’t always know I’d become a social worker. Like many, I began my career search with uncertainty. But I did know one thing clearly: I wanted my work to mean something. I wanted to wake up and know I was helping someone navigate a world that too often overlooks them. That search led me to Brightside Child & Family Advocacy, and specifically to their Brighter Futures program. These are young people who often face adulthood alone without the safety net that most of us take for granted. Youth aging out of foster care face many challenges:
These realities are heartbreaking, but they’re not the whole story. Because what I see every day with Brighter Futures is that with the right support, these young people can thrive. Sometimes, it’s just being there consistently. Celebrating their wins, sitting with them through losses, and reminding them they’re not alone. My work is about showing up, even when it’s hard. Especially when it’s hard. And in doing so, we build something they may never have had before: trust. Working with youth aging out of care has deepened my understanding of what it means to be strong, not in the absence of struggle, but in how you continue in spite of it. These young people have taught me patience, humility, and the power of human connection. They’ve also taught me that change isn’t always loud or immediate. Sometimes, it looks like a young person making their first dentist appointment. Or going back to school. Or saying, “I trust you.” As a social worker, and as a human, this work has stretched me. I’ve grown in resilience, in empathy, and in the belief that healing is always possible if we create the space for it.
As we journey through life, it often leads us to where we’re meant to be—so follow your dreams, and they’ll guide you to your purpose. Thirteen years ago, I decided I wanted to become a CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocate). At the time, I was pursuing my undergraduate degree in Psychology. During that period, a close family member of mine was removed from her home due to physical abuse. My mother, a close relative, received a call asking if she could take temporary custody of the child. Living in the same home with this relative who had experienced abuse opened my eyes to the deep impact trauma can have on a child. When CASA visited the child at my home, I learned about their role. I witnessed firsthand the responsibilities of a CASA and how rewarding it is to volunteer and be a voice for children who cannot speak for themselves. From that moment, I knew I wanted to become a CASA. After completing my degree, I began CASA training. Although I initially had to put it on hold to continue my graduate studies and begin working as a substitute teacher for grades K–12 in the public school system. My passion for helping children motivated me to keep pursuing my dream. I eventually became certified and started volunteering as a CASA. Shortly after beginning my CASA journey, I was offered a position with Brightside Child & Family Advocacy as a Family Support Specialist. In this role, I work with children and families involved in the foster care system. I am truly grateful to be living out my dream and doing work that is both meaningful and rewarding. My goal as a Family Support Specialist is to help families overcome their challenges by providing guidance, connecting them to resources, and supporting them in meeting court requirements so they can reunify with their children. One of my favorite Bible verses is: "Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct thy paths." — Proverbs 3:5–6 I truly believe that everything happens for a reason. Life has led me back to the path I was meant to walk—helping others and making a difference in the lives of children and families who need support and hope.
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. About the Author
Spring in Savannah is like something out of a dream—the air is warm, but not too hot, and the moss-draped oaks create a canopy of green and gold that feels timeless. As the flowers bloom and the days grow longer, there's a special sense of renewal that I can't help but connect to. It’s a beautiful thing, feeling like you're exactly where you need to be. And for me, that’s doing the work of advocating for the children of our community. Every day, I see the impact of our efforts, but it’s not just about the work—it’s deeply personal. As a mom of two, I understand, more than ever, how vital it is to create a world where every child feels safe, seen, and heard. Being a mother gives me a unique perspective on this work. The hopes, dreams, and fears I have for my own kids echo in the voices of the children we work for. It's easy to get overwhelmed by daily challenges, but when I pause and reflect, I see how fortunate I am to contribute to a cause that's having such a meaningful impact. To be apart of a team that strives for justice, for love, and for hope—the core values that every child deserves, no matter their circumstances. This spring, I’m taking time to reflect on the roles of being both an advocate and a mother. I’m constantly reminded that our children are our future, and it’s our responsibility to nurture them, protect them, and stand up for them in every way we can. It’s more than just a job—it’s a calling. And it feels especially fulfilling to be doing it here, at Brightside Child & Family Advocacy. As we move further into this beautiful spring season, I am filled with hope. And with that, an ever-growing reminder that the work we do today will bloom into something brighter tomorrow, for our kids and for generations to come. The Author
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.
New Year's Resolutions: Personal Growth, Professional Dedication, and the Power of Volunteering1/14/2025 As we step into the new year, many of us take time to reflect on the past and set new resolutions. These resolutions, whether personal or professional, serve as an opportunity for growth, a chance to reflect on our values, and a reminder that we can always strive for better. For those of us who work at Brightside Child and Family Advocacy, resolutions often extend beyond our own lives and touch the lives of the children we support, particularly those in the foster care system. The work we do is deeply meaningful, but it is also challenging and requires ongoing self-care. It’s important to recognize that while we support the children and families we serve, we also need to invest in ourselves. This is my first year working with Brightside, and I’m excited to grow in my role and learn how to be an even better advocate for the children and families we work with. Our mission is incredibly important: to support kids in foster care by providing them with the advocacy, guidance, and resources they need to thrive. But I also recognize that the journey to helping these children requires me to be constantly evolving, learning, and finding new ways to serve. One of my professional resolutions is to deepen my understanding of the foster care system and the various challenges these children face. Whether it's attending training, seeking mentorship from my colleagues, or simply reflecting on how I can be a more effective advocate, I am committed to growing in my position and better equipping myself to make a difference. The work is both rewarding and demanding, and I know that to truly support others, I must take care of myself first. Whether it’s through mindfulness, spending time with loved ones, or even learning a new hobby like crocheting (which is something I’ve always wanted to try!), it’s important to make space for things outside of work that bring joy and peace. While my resolutions are focused on both my personal and professional growth, I want to encourage you, whether you're part of Brightside or simply someone looking for ways to give back, to consider volunteering as part of your New Year's resolution. Volunteering, particularly in the area of child welfare and foster care, offers an opportunity to make a tangible impact on someone’s life. Whether you’re donating your time, skills, or resources, the act of giving back not only strengthens our communities but can also be a deeply rewarding experience for you personally. If you’re new to volunteering or looking for ways to get involved in the new year, here are a few suggestions:
Here’s to the new year, new beginnings, and the endless possibilities for growth, healing, and impact. Together, we can make a difference in the lives of children and families, while also taking care of ourselves in the process. Cheers to 2025!
 In the summer of 2023, Carla* and her children began their journey at the Bright House, a new chapter that marked the beginning of their healing and reconnection. Before coming to Bright House, Carla had been largely absent from her children’s lives, and the family had faced significant challenges. The children had missed an excessive amount of school, largely because their grandmother, who had been their primary caregiver, was struggling to care for both herself and them. When Carla and her children began their first visitations, the Bright House staff could see the distance between her and her kids. But over time, something remarkable began to happen. As she started to spend more time with them, her transformation was nothing short of inspiring. Carla began to engage more deeply with her children. The smiles that had once been few and far between became more frequent, and with each passing visit, her confidence as a parent grew. Where she had once remained on the sidelines, sitting on the couch while her children played video games, Carla gradually began to take an active role in their lives. She joined them in cooking meals, played board games, and spent time drawing with her youngest child on the floor. The laughter that filled the room became a symbol of the progress they were making together. As Carla embraced the nurturing, healthy parenting styles we teach at Bright House, the impact on her relationship with her children became clear. Her increased engagement helped foster stronger connections, and soon, her children began seeking her out. They no longer retreated into the world of video games or electronics; instead, they wanted to spend time with their mother, to laugh and create memories with her. The transformation in this family is undeniable. With the support of the Bright House staff, Carla and her children have built a stronger, healthier bond. We are proud to share that in the Fall, Carla and her children were granted “at-home” visits, marking an exciting milestone on their journey toward reunification. While it’s always bittersweet to say goodbye, it is deeply fulfilling to see parents like Carla apply the skills they’ve learned at Bright House to nurture their families and build the foundation for a brighter future. *The names of participants have been changed to protect their privacy.
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