IMPACT
in the Northern Hills
Your Generosity in Action
In the Northern Hills, one extraordinary volunteer with CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates) of the Northern Hills has left a lasting legacy of compassion and advocacy. Her unwavering dedication to a single case earned her national recognition when she was awarded the prestigious Volunteer for Victims Award by the Office for Victims of Crime in Washington, D.C.
The volunteer was nominated for her remarkable efforts in advocating for four young siblings, ages 2-6, who were victims of severe neglect by their biological parents. Over the course of 2 ½ years, she made more than 470 contacts with the children, foster parents, counselors, teachers, daycare providers, attorneys, and family service specialists. Despite the challenges of the children being placed in different homes for most of the case, she ensured they maintained sibling bonds by facilitating visits and providing transportation assistance to the Department of Social Services.
Her advocacy went beyond logistics — she provided emotional support, encouragement, and resources to the foster parents, including the young couple who eventually adopted all four siblings. This volunteer’s reports to the court, consistent presence at hearings, and steadfast commitment to the children’s well-being played a critical role in their journey to a safe, stable, and loving forever home.
The impact of her dedication didn’t end when the case closed. The volunteer remains connected to the children, continuing to provide support and celebrate milestones, including being invited to the anniversary celebration of their adoption. Her nomination for this award was accompanied by letters of praise from the judge and the children’s attorney, who both commended her for her extraordinary advocacy and unwavering commitment to the family.
Thanks to generous donors like you, United Way of the Black Hills is able to make stories like this possible!