When Jade Levi joined the CASA staff as an advocate coordinator, she wasn’t sure if she was going to advocate. But then she saw the advocates in action and knew she would join their ranks.

“The stories from my advocates inspire me,” Jade said. “I began to really see the difference this program makes in the life of a child.”

Jade jumped right in to a rather difficult case and quickly built a bond with the teenage girl who has come to recognize Jade as a loyal support in her life.

“Each time I talk and visit with her, I am showing her that I’m there because I want to be, not because I have to be,” Jade said. I get to be a constant in her life and I will be there for her any time she needs me.”

Jade understands firsthand why the role of a volunteer advocate is so important and so necessary.

“I grew up in the Luzerne County foster care system,” Jade said. “I understand how painful it is to experience the trauma that most of our children go through by being removed from their home and their families.

“I also understand how meaningful it is to have a positive role model during those difficult times — someone you can confide in and trust and turn to for advice, guidance, and support.”

While we don’t all have the personal connection Jade does, we can all agree that every child deserves to feel like they’re seen, to know they’re supported, and to truly be heard.

If you’d like to join Jade and the rest of our advocates on this mission, please reach out to us at office@luzernecasa.org.

Our fall training class starts on Monday, September, 27 and we’d love to talk to you about joining us.

Jade holds a bachelor’s degree in Government, Law, and National Security from Misericordia and lives in Dallas with her daughter Avery and their cat Pumpkin.