Meet Katie Parsons, the March Advocate Spotlight for 2022. Katie began her journey as an advocate for CASA of Luzerne County in December 2021. It did not take long for Katie to jump right into her advocacy and begin to make her mark.
Katie worked as a nurse in the pediatric ICU and had several cases that involved children who had been abused or neglected. In many of these cases Katie noted that the children did not have strong support systems. Her sister is on the board for CASA of Luzerne County and when she heard the advocates speak at an event she immediately became interested in becoming a volunteer.
She currently advocates for a 12 year old boy. Recently, she and he read the same book as you would in a book club. This was a memorable moment for her in her advocacy because it was a breakthrough in their relationship. Katie states that discussing the book allowed free flowing conversation which resulted in the child opening up to her about some things in his life. She reflects that finding different ways to connect with each child can be challenging yet so rewarding. Katie believes that her unwavering support coupled with her willingness to take a vested interest in all aspects of his life has been beneficial to him.
Katie would like anyone considering becoming a CASA advocate to know that it will change your life. The training prepares you for the role and the staff is super and will support you as you navigate through your case. She notes that these kids have been through traumatic situations, and you could be the one to provide stability and change the course of their life.
Katie wishes that more people understood that being a volunteer advocate with CASA is a VOLUNTEER position and that you can become an advocate even if you work.
The most important aspect of advocating for Katie is showing the child continuous support and helping to bridge the communication gaps between all the people involved in the case. Katie urges everyone to become a part of the CASA team because together we can do great things. Your kindness, compassion and time will make a huge impact on a child’s life.
We are grateful to Katie for her commitment to her advocacy. If you’d like to make a difference in the life of a child in the way Katie has, we invite you to join us for an info session to learn more about advocacy and what it means to be a CASA.
Katie resides in Bear Creek, PA with her husband John, children Matt, Paige, Grace and Gillian and dogs, Rory and Winnie.
