Texas CASA recently welcomed 51 supervisors from across the network to Dallas for a day-and-a-half, in-person Strengths-Based Supervision (SBS) training. The training focused on building the soft skills supervisors need to effectively support advocates while strengthening confidence, retention, and critical thinking across programs.

Participants explored how intentional supervision can support advocates’ educational, administrative, and relational needs, and discussed practical ways to implement these approaches in day-to-day work. Through rich discussion and interactive group activities, attendees shared their own experiences, challenges, and problem-solving strategies with one another.

Throughout the training, facilitators modeled the same strengths-based approach supervisors are encouraged to use with their advocates. Participants were given space to think critically, learn from one another, and work through solutions together, with guidance and support provided when needed.

Additional training content included Collaborative Family Engagement principles, volunteer retention strategies, and tools for engaging in courageous conversations with advocates. These topics helped supervisors reflect on how strengths-based supervision supports both the advocate experience and long-term program sustainability.

Feedback from participants highlighted the value of the collaborative and practical approach. One attendee shared, “I am new to CASA as a supervisor, therefore, all information provided is greatly appreciated and beneficial as I start to work with my own volunteers.” Another noted, “I loved going around and writing how we apply certain things to our program and learning about how other programs do it as well.”

The SBS In-Person Training provided supervisors with concrete tools, shared learning, and renewed confidence to support advocates in meaningful, strengths-based ways across the CASA network. Thank you to all who attended!