Meet Sherilyn Siegmund-Roach, or Sheri, a retired public school teacher from Alaska, who relocated to Montana, via Nashville, in 2023. While retirement might have signaled the end of one chapter, Sheri wasn’t quite ready to close the book on her work with children. After settling into her new life in the Big Sky state, she began training to become a Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA), eager to continue making a positive impact in the lives of young ones.
Outside of her CASA work, Sheri wears many hats. She’s a clinical aromatherapist with a passion for wellness, enjoys walking with her husband and their dog, and loves e-biking through Montana’s beautiful scenery. Traveling to visit her children and grandchildren brings her great joy, and she fills her free time with sewing, needlework, and playing the viola and handbells. Never one to sit still, Sheri finds fulfillment in a diverse array of activities and is always eager to take on new challenges.
Currently, Sheri is assigned to advocate for two families through CASA, and she finds deep fulfillment in watching the children she supports thrive, overcome obstacles, and celebrate their successes. One of her CASA children was an infant, only a few months old when they first met. At the time, Sheri wasn’t sure how she could possibly make a difference, but after several visits, it became clear that her presence was appreciated. The family saw her not only as an advocate but as a trusted resource and source of support. Sheri’s relationship with the family continues to grow, and she is grateful for the opportunity to be part of their journey.
Her decision to become a CASA volunteer was one of her first decisions after moving to MT, and Sheri has since made it her mission to pass on that same encouragement to others who might be interested in volunteering. Her advice to anyone considering becoming a volunteer is simple: “Yellowstone County is an excellent place to start. The program offers practical training and ongoing support, and the staff and structure of the local program ensure that volunteer Advocates always have someone in their corner and never have to feel alone. They are encouraging and a supportive sounding board for ideas.”
Despite her many hobbies and wide-ranging interests, Sheri dedicates 110% of her compassion and energy to advocating for her CASA children. Her commitment and dedication to the program have made a lasting impact, and we are all incredibly grateful for her hard work and unwavering support of the children she serves.
