An Advocate and Role Model for Teen-age Boy
When Robin Nijor decided to become an Advocate for a youth in foster care, he knew right away that he wanted to be matched with a boy in his teens. For CASA of Santa Cruz County, Robin was filling a crucial and ongoing need: although half the children referred to CASA for an Advocate are male, only 25% of CASA’s volunteer Advocates are men.
When Robin first met 13-year old Stephen*, it was clear Stephen wanted to protect his mom, who was struggling with substance abuse. “At first, Stephen was very careful with what he would share with me,” Robin said. “After several months, though, he began to talk about himself, and his feelings.”
Robin worked as a team with three other “co-CASAs” to ensure that each child in the family was getting the attention and support they needed. “Mom is a good person, and loved her kids,” Robin said. “But raising four kids on your own is difficult in any circumstance. She worked very hard to get all of her kids bac
k home with her.”
Robin spent time with Stephen every week. “All the males in his life had been destructive or abusive in some way,” Robin said. “Stephen and his siblings were much more mature than they should have had to be, because of all they’d been through.” When Stephen expressed an interest in martial arts, Robin secured funding from CASA for Stephen and his brother to attend martial arts classes. Robin held Stephen’s “Educational Rights,” so when there was a problem at school, Robin was there to meet with Stephen’s teachers and help him through the rough spots. And, after much hard work and perseverance, Stephen and his three siblings were returned to live at home with their mom.
Robin not only made a profound difference in Stephen’s life, but he was personally affected by his experience as an Advocate. “I think it made me a better father, and more appreciative of my kids,” Robin said. “I found myself taking a personal inventory, and making more time for my own children.”
Although Stephen’s case is closed, Robin said he and Stephen would continue to see each other. “Stephen mentioned he wanted to go to the circus, so we’ll go to the circus!” Robin said. “I’m hoping our time together will be ongoing. And I know if any of the children in this family need something, CASA will be there for them.”
*Name changed to protect the confidentiality of the youth.
To learn more about how you can advocate for a child or youth in foster care, please sign up for a CASA orientation session at www.tinyurl.com/CASAorientation.