Having retired from a distinguished career in teaching — which included Extended Studies, Library & Computers, and Post Secondary Language Arts and Technology — Florence Diede decided she wanted to make a new commitment. After observing CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocate) volunteers meeting with their kids in her school library, she decided to become a CASA herself.
Florence has been a CASA advocate for 17 years and has had 6 cases assigned to her. One of the most recent cases involved a teenage girl and another a young boy who had experienced family loss. She was fortunate to see both cases finalized with adoption. On one particular CASA visit, as she was leaving, one of her children called out, “I love you.” Florence knew she had been the one constant in that child’s life.
While being a CASA takes time, a volunteer reaps many rewards. Knowing the important role they play in advocating on behalf of their kids, building trust with foster parents, birth parents, and the children themselves, makes an indelible impression on all parties involved. As a CASA, Florence played an integral role in making the journey from displacement to adoption a reality through her strong commitment and advocacy for each one of her kids.
Throughout the many cases that Florence has been assigned, she has been consistent in ensuring that her children’s concerns and needs were met. Visits to daycares, schools, special events, and foster homes were a top priority in all her cases. Building relationships with each child, listening to them, and advocating for their safety was a number one priority.
Florence’s advice to future CASA’s: “Take only what you have time to cover. Start slow and learn the system. Continuing education is one of the BEST features of CASA. Luncheons, classes, book groups, and small groups all provide new and growing information for us. Take advantage of these.”
Florence is actively involved with JustServe.org, a website to volunteer for service in our community. She is involved with GFWC locally, state-wide and internationally. She loves spending time sewing and enjoys creating many items with her embroidery machine. We thank Florence for her dedication to CASA and the kids she serves.
