The Power of Showing Up for Children 

Dear Friends,  

November offers two important opportunities to reflect on what children need to thrive. Inspirational Role Models Month reminds us of the lasting impact caring adults can have in a child’s life, while National Adoption Month calls attention to children and youth waiting for permanent, loving families. Both are reminders that every child deserves to feel safe, supported, and valued — and to know there are adults who believe in their future. 

For children in foster care, that support can be especially meaningful. Children often experience significant changes and uncertainty, from separation from their families to moving between homes, schools, and communities. Despite these challenges, a consistent, caring adult can provide stability, encouragement, and a sense of belonging. That is at the heart of what CASA volunteers do. They get to know the children they serve, listen to their needs, and work to ensure their voices are heard throughout the child welfare process. 

Recently, I had the opportunity to share this message during a KHOU interview alongside AD Tincopa, Texas CASA’s Public Policy Specialist and a CASA volunteer with Travis County. We invited viewers to become a CASA volunteer and discussed the realities facing children in foster care across Texas, including the 10,000 who still need a CASA volunteer. What I hope people took away from our conversation is that you don’t have to be an expert in child welfare to make a difference. You need to be willing to learn, show up consistently, and speak up for a child.  

Of course, showing up for children means looking beyond their immediate needs, too. Every child deserves the opportunity to grow up with lasting connections and a safe, stable place to call home. During National Adoption Month, we recognize the nearly 4,000 children in Texas who are eligible for adoption and waiting for a permanent family. While safe reunification with parents remains the primary goal whenever possible, CASA volunteers also advocate for other permanent solutions, including placement with relatives, family friends, or adoptive families. No matter the path forward, children deserve adults who remain focused on their needs, well-being, and future. 

Whether you are a CASA volunteer, a community partner, a policymaker, a donor, or someone learning about our mission for the first time, you have a role to play. You can become a CASA volunteer, explore fostering or adoption, share the stories of children and families in the child welfare system, or support the CASA programs working to meet their needs.  

At Texas CASA, we strive for every child in the child welfare system to have a CASA volunteer who is solely focused on their best interests. Getting there takes all of us working together. This November, I hope you’ll join me in celebrating all the role models who show up for children every day and consider how you, too, can help a child feel heard, supported, and hopeful about the future. 

With gratitude,

Vicki Spriggs, Texas CASA CEO