Advocate Spotlight: Beth Distasio

As an advocate, Beth Distasio realizes the potential in every child – provided they have what they need. And at the top of that list is a safe, loving home environment and a support system in their lives.

Unfortunately, we see day in and day out the alarming number of children who don’t experience that stability or support. There are too many children who are subject to abuse and/or neglect and, because of those circumstances, then find themselves in the middle of a confusing and overwhelming system.

That’s where a CASA comes in.

“I was looking for a way to give back to the community and, when I learned about the CASA organization, it seemed like a wonderful opportunity to make a positive impact on a child’s life,” Beth said. “Although, as advocates, we cannot change the circumstances which necessitate our becoming involved in a child’s life, we can be a constant positive in their lives.”

Something she realizes so many children in our community are lacking.  

“We can be the person they know will be there for them in any capacity they need, and as a volunteer we do that because we care, not because it is our job. I think this makes a huge impact and is the first step in building a relationship with a child in need.”

Beth was sworn-in as a CASA in May 2017, and currently advocates for a four-year-old little girl.

“I look forward to seeing her each time I visit and am continually amazed at how resilient she is despite what she has been through,” Beth said.

There are currently 460 children in the Luzerne County foster care system because of abuse and neglect. A number that has only grown in recent months.

“There is a huge need for advocates as we have so many children in the child welfare system,” Beth said. “Becoming an advocate may seem like a daunting task when you are in training, but it truly is manageable. Moreover, once you meet a child and become involved, it is a profoundly rewarding experience.”

Beth knows that the hard work that goes into this volunteer work is worth it to the children involved.

“Being able to positively affect a child’s life in some small way and providing that child with an adult who becomes involved in their life simply because they care and want the best for them (is the most important thing about advocating),” she said.

Beth is a paralegal by day and lives with her husband, Dan, and their dog Max. We are so thankful for her hard work and dedication.

If, like Beth, you’re ready to step up for a local child in need, talk to us about becoming a CASA volunteer. If volunteering isn’t right for you, you can recommend someone you know to become a volunteer or make a donation to our program. 

How can you prevent child abuse?

The end of April is almost here and, with that, the end of Child Abuse Prevention Month. Just because the month's designation changes, doesn't mean that we don't have to be any less vigilant with our children or the children in our care. 

Now that we know more about recognizing the signs of abuse and neglect, we need to work together to prevent it in the first place.

Here are some steps we can take:

• Listen: Talk to and listen to your child. Show your child that you are always available to listen to them and that you support them. 
• Know who your child knows: Most abusers are someone well-known to the child or family. Statistics show that 90% of child sexual assault victims know their abuser. 
• Avoid one adult/one child situations: Don't leave your child alone with adults you don't know or don't trust.
• Monitor your child’s internet and cell phone use: Offenders often use the internet and text messaging to lure children into contact. Teach your kids about internet safety.
• Offer help and ask for help: Assist your friends, neighbors, and family members with child care when able. Ask someone you can trust for help when you need it.
• Educate your child: Teach your child about their body and the difference between appropriate and inappropriate touching. Tell your children that inappropriate touching could happen with anyone. Also remember that not all abuse is physical. Children should be aware of what is appropriate behavior and what isn't. Let them know it’s OK for them to tell another safe adult if something happens. Make sure your child knows who the safe adults are in their lives.
• Teach your child to say “no”: A child should be able to set their own boundaries about whether or not they are comfortable around a particular adult. Give them permission to say “NO” if they do not want to hug, kiss, or be touched in any way by another adult.  

If a child tells you about incidents of abuse and/or neglect, please make a report to ChildLine's 24-hour hotline by calling 800-932-0313.  

We at CASA want to make sure that every child who finds themselves in the Luzerne County foster care system because of abuse and neglect is safe, secure, and given the opportunity to thrive. You can help make that happen for them by becoming a CASA volunteer. If volunteering isn’t right for you, you can recommend someone you know to become a volunteer or make a donation to our program. 

* Info adapted from the Center for Child Protection