You make a lasting impact. Ron Hocking

I became a CASA in April 2017, following our move to Terre Haute from Nebraska. I had been thinking about various ways that I could contribute to our new community.

I am a retired schoolteacher and have always enjoyed working with youth. I read several newspaper articles and followed various news releases focusing on the Vigo County CASA program. I discussed my interest with veteran CASA volunteer, Bill Jenkins. He invited me to an “open house” meeting where I could visit with staff and learn more about becoming a volunteer, and that began this incredible journey I could have never imagined could be.

So far, my most significant difficulty as a CASA has been getting used to the long delays that frequently occur when waiting to attend a hearing and seeing just how many cases of abuse and neglect that are in our community.

Since my early days as a CASA, I have advocated on several cases. I greatly enjoy my role as a CASA volunteer and the impact I am making on our community's most vulnerable assets. I firmly believe that all CASA volunteers are making a positive impact on the lives of children. There aren’t many opportunities in life that allow you the ability to make a lasting impact truly, and being a CASA volunteer is one of those that does just that.