The names of the children and their parents have been changed to protect their privacy.
When CASA volunteer Joy Payne was assigned her first case, the family was facing overwhelming challenges. Conditions inside their home had become unsafe, and the children could no longer remain there.
Rather than being separated, the entire family - including the children and their parents - moved in with the children’s grandparents. With a safe temporary place to stay and the support of their extended family, the parents began the difficult work of making their home livable again.
The repairs required far more than a quick cleanup. The family essentially gutted the home, removing damaged belongings and addressing years of unsafe conditions. They cleaned, repaired and rebuilt, eventually restoring running water and a working sewer system.
Throughout the case, Joy kept the children’s safety and well-being at the center of every decision. She made sure their needs were not overlooked as the adults worked through the many challenges facing the family. Her focus was not simply on whether repairs were being completed, but on whether the home would ultimately provide the children with the safe, stable environment they deserved.
Joy was also a steady source of encouragement throughout the process. She helped the family identify local resources that could support their progress while holding them accountable for doing the difficult work themselves. She recognized their accomplishments, encouraged them when the process felt overwhelming and continued advocating for the changes necessary to protect the children.
The journey was not easy, but the family did not give up. With support from their relatives, help from community resources and Joy’s consistent advocacy, they transformed their home into a safe and stable place for their children. In the end, the entire family was able to return home together.
Joy closed her very first CASA case with reunification - a reminder that when families are given support, encouragement and the opportunity to make meaningful changes, they can rebuild more than a house. They can rebuild hope for their future.
CASA for Children complies with applicable Federal Civil Rights Laws and does not discriminate based on race, color, sex, national origin, age, disability, military service or lack of military service, religious affiliations or belief, or sexual orientation, gender identity or expression.
