Blog
Explore powerful stories and updates from the Hall-Dawson CASA community.
A Second Chance at Life
When her children were found home alone in unsafe and unsanitary conditions, a young mother was arrested, and her children were placed in foster care. The home had been marked by instability, domestic violence, and neglect — and the path ahead seemed uncertain.
During her incarceration, her CASA volunteer continued to advocate for the best interests of her children, ensuring their needs were being met. Even while she was separated from them, her CASA’s steady presence provided hope and reassurance that reunification could one day be possible.
When the mother was released nearly a year later, her CASA volunteer remained by her side, continuing to advocate for reunification and offering guidance at every step. Her CASA provided recommendations and practical advice on how to make her home safe and suitable for her young children — from organizing the space to creating a nurturing environment where they could play and grow. With encouragement and accountability, she worked diligently through her case plan until she completed it successfully.
Today, her transformation is nothing short of inspiring. She has become an advocate for other victims of domestic violence and earned a degree in counseling from Georgia Tech. Now, she counsels women at Ensena, Ama y Respira in Gainesville, GA, helping others find hope and healing just as she once did.
She shared this heartfelt reflection on her journey:
“CASA helped me obtain my rights as a mother, even though I was losing them. They always made sure I had the knowledge as a mother to be with my children again. I remember they gave me that support in the midst of darkness — they were there until I achieved my goal: having my children back.
Thank you, CASA, for being part of that second chance at life.
They provided resources when I needed them most and offered what I’d been missing, like school supplies for my children. I truly thank Alex for lending me that hand. They were a blessing — helping me continue growing as a mother and as a human being. Thank you, CASA, for being part of our lives.”
Stronger Together: A Couple's Commitment to Changing Lives
When it comes to the heart of CASA’s mission, advocating for the most vulnerable members of our community, few stories reflect that commitment more powerfully than Linda and Steve’s. Linda, former Dean of the Library at Brenau University, first became involved with CASA nearly 14 years ago. Encouraged by her close friend and one of CASA’s previous directors, Connie Stephens, Linda joined the board and never looked back. Over the years, she’s held many roles: organizer, fundraiser, board chair—and each deepened her understanding and passion for CASA’s work. “The more involved I became, the more I understood the impact of CASA’s mission,” Linda shared. “Our neighbors aren’t just the people who live next to us; they’re anyone in need. CASA serves those children who need a voice. That’s why we do what we do.”
Steve, who brings a background in construction, was no stranger to CASA’s mission. For years, he stood behind the scenes supporting Linda’s work, from helping with maintenance at The Little House to cheering her on at home. But due to a conflict of interest, he couldn’t serve as a CASA volunteer while Linda was on the board.
When Linda transitioned to CASA’s advisory council at the end of 2024, the door finally opened for Steve to take the next step. "I’ve always wanted to be a CASA. I’ve seen the passion, the difference it makes, and I just knew I wanted to be a part of that,” he said. “Now that I’ve completed the training and been sworn in, I feel fully supported and ready to be that light for a child going through darkness.”
The two reflect a deeply shared purpose and unwavering belief in CASA’s work. Their journey together—one as a leader shaping the organization, the other stepping into a direct advocacy role—underscores just how many different ways there are to support CASA’s mission. “There are so many roles where people can serve,” Linda added. “Board work, fundraising, reviewing standards, volunteering through the CAT Center, and of course, being a CASA. It’s not one-size-fits-all, but there’s a place for everyone who wants to help Change A Child’s Story.”
And for Steve, there’s a special message to others, especially men: “There are so many young boys out there who need a positive male role model. Just being present, caring—that alone can change a life.” Now officially a CASA family, including their daughter-in-law who served in another jurisdiction, their story is a testament to what’s possible when service becomes a shared calling.
