Staff Spotlight: Laura Sanchez, Fund Development Specialist

Laura is the Fund Development Specialist at Texas CASA. She holds a bachelor’s degree in business management with a concentration in digital marketing and brings experience in marketing, communications, and small business. Laura joined Texas CASA as a Social Media Intern in 2024, where she developed her skills in digital engagement and storytelling. After transitioning into fund development, she discovered a passion for connecting supporters with the Texas CASA mission and building relationships that help strengthen the CASA network. Today, she combines her marketing expertise and fundraising knowledge to support donor engagement and advance Texas CASA’s impact across Texas.

Háblenos de usted y de lo que le llevó a trabajar en el ámbito del bienestar infantil. 

I was born and raised in San Antonio, and my experiences growing up in such a strong community helped shape my passion for service. Through volunteering with various local organizations throughout my life, I saw firsthand the impact that compassion, support, and human connection can have on people’s lives. Those experiences inspired me to pursue work that makes a meaningful difference. What initially drew me to Texas CASA was the mission and the opportunity to be part of something that creates real impact. Working in the child welfare space has shown me how much hope exists when people come together to support their communities. It has been inspiring to see the dedication of CASA volunteers, local programs, and supporters who are all working toward the same goal of helping children have a brighter future.

¿Cuánto tiempo lleva trabajando para CASA Texas y cómo se involucró en la misión de CASA?

I joined Texas CASA as a Social Media Intern in the spring of 2024 and transitioned into my current role as Fund Development Specialist a year later. Through my internship, I learned more about the CASA mission and had the opportunity to help share stories that highlighted the impact of Texas CASA and the CASA network. The more I learned about the work being done across the state, the more connected I felt to the mission and the people who make it possible. 

Tell us about your work on the Fund Development team and your role as the Fund Development Specialist.

As the Fund Development Specialist, I support donor engagement, fundraising efforts, and stewardship initiatives that help sustain the work of Texas CASA. My background in marketing has been a valuable foundation for my work in fundraising, helping me communicate our impact, strengthen relationships with supporters, and create meaningful opportunities for donors to connect with our mission. Every day looks a little different, which keeps the work exciting and gives me opportunities to continue learning and growing professionally.

¿Cómo impacta tu experiencia personal tu trabajo en Texas CASA? 

My background and life experiences have taught me the power of storytelling and how meaningful stories can inspire people to take action. Through my education, marketing experience, and internships, including my time at RBFCU, I learned how effective communication can build connections and strengthen communities. That perspective helps me communicate the impact of the CASA mission in a way that connects supporters to our organization. I have also always valued community service and helping others. Volunteering with local organizations such as the San Antonio Food Bank and Haven for Hope reinforced the importance of giving back, showing compassion, and supporting people through different stages of life. Being part of an organization that brings together people who care deeply about making a difference is incredibly rewarding, and those experiences motivate me to do my best work every day.

¿Qué es lo que más le gusta de su trabajo?

My favorite part of my job is the Texas CASA team and seeing firsthand how passionate people are about supporting the CASA mission. It is inspiring to connect with individuals and organizations who want to make a difference and to see the impact their generosity has across the state. I also enjoy being able to combine my marketing and fundraising skills while continuing to learn, grow, and find new ways to engage supporters in our work.