Volunteer Voices

Victoria Lippman, Volunteer, CASA of Travis County, Austin, Texas

Why did you become a CASA?

Something happened soon after my high school graduation that changed my life forever. I thought I was in love, I had no plans for college, and my boyfriend had become my only interest. I thought things were perfect until he said the words that would change me forever... "I think you need a hobby ... something other than me." That one sentence made me feel worthless and lost. The very next day my pride drove me to what was then called the Capital Area Volunteer Center in Austin. "No one will ever say those words to me again! I'll get a hobby alright! He will NEVER see me again!" I angrily flipped through books with volunteer opportunities until I came upon a listing that melted my heart. CASA of Travis County was in need of volunteers to make a difference in the life of a child in foster care. (I used to baby sit 4 little kids that went into the foster care system).

I was not old enough at the time to volunteer for CASA but it always stayed with me, and a few years later I completed the 40 hour training and got my first case as an advocate. I then went on to put myself through college to get a degree in Social Work from the University of Texas, where I begged them to let me do my internship at Child Protective Services. Since then, I have continued to support CASA by donating money or volunteering on behalf of children (that was 14 years ago). I am currently a CASA for 2 children in foster care. For the last 3 years I have also been working with Texas CASA (as a volunteer) to bring a CASA to Williamson County.

What would you say to someone considering becoming a CASA volunteer?

By giving to CASA I gained an identity and self-esteem. I now look at "negative" events differently. It's those defining moments that contributed to making me the woman I am today. I would tell anyone interested in volunteering for CASA that what YOU get out of it will by far outweigh what you give.