CASA of HoCo MVP - April - June2012
Meet Mrs. Heather P.
"CASA has made me stronger. Watching the children struggle, grow and prosper has lifted my spirits and helped me be more confident about my role and responsibilities in the world. I've learned that I am more useful and giving than I thought possible. .."
HOMETOWN - Lexington, Kentucky
I was relocated to Houston County 4 years ago after my husband was transferred via the USAF.
I have a bachelor's of science degree in police administration and criminal justice. I spent several years working in local law enforcement as a city police officer and corrections officer. I took time away from full-time employment to raise my children, Lylah and Colton.
I work part-time out of my home painting and raising money for my charities. My sunroom has been turned into a little art studio which I have named PINK MOONSHINE STUDIO. I sell my acrylic paintings on etsy and facebook. I give 33 % of the proceeds to CASA of Houston Co., Autism Awareness and the DOVE center in Macon. I also enjoy spending time outdoors with my children and 3 dogs. I cycle, practice yoga and read.
As a CASA I have advocated for two children on two separate cases. My first sweet baby girl was adopted by relatives, and my second precious little boy was reunified with his mother after almost spending two years in foster care.
I became involved with CASA at the recommendation of a friend who is a lawyer in Lexington. She sent me a link to the national CASA website and told me that I would be a perfect fit. She was right!
The initial training and continuing education classes have been wonderful. I was given all the necessary information and hands-on learning opportunities to be a CASA volunteer. I learn something helpful and interesting with every seminar, book and on-line class I take. The continual education not only better equips me for my cases but it also helps me as a mother. The world of child welfare and services is evolving. State and federal laws, statues, community support and policies change at such a rapid rate. Taking classes that educate me on these changes keep me a well informed and effective volunteer.
CASA is my way of giving back to the world. It is a way to be involved with the children in need in my community while still being able to raise my own children. The amount of time I give to the program is at my discretion, which makes my pace of volunteering my responsibility. There is no pressure or expectations beyond what I am willing to offer.
CASA has been such a blessing. I enjoy every aspect of the program and work. It has been life changing. I sleep better at night knowing there are dedicated, honest and loving people willing to become involved with children who so desperately need someone in their life. I am a friend, mentor and advocate. I am the voice of the child and I am honored to speak up and speak out on their behalf.
CASA has made me stronger. Watching the children struggle, grow and prosper has lifted my spirits and helped me be more confident about my role and responsibilities in the world. I've learned that I am more useful and giving than I thought possible. I've learned to "walk a mile in someone else's shoes" with patience and understanding. I have learned to listen more and be more compassionate. I have learned to love strangers as if they were my own. I have learned that I am a good woman with a heart that grows bigger with every child I am blessed to involve myself with. I have learned to accept my flaws with more grace and have confidence in my gifts. Being a CASA volunteer has made me a better person.
I work with positive, caring and amazing people that continue to inspire me.
I willingly give these children my heart and it has been the most rewarding experience of my life.
