TEXAS—Sarah Gunn never imagined she’d work in child welfare. With a background inaccounting, she sought a way to give back to her community when someone suggested volunteering with the East Texas Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA).
That small step changed everything.
“I was intimidated at first,” Sarah admits. “But everything I saw at CASA made me feel like it was the right place for me. It’s almost like I was called to it. A lot of people in CASA feel that way. You don’t just stumble into this work…you feel pulled toward it.”
Now, Sarah serves as the Program Specialist at East Texas CASA. She collaborates with DFPS and other agencies like Angel Watch and Legacy House to fill gaps in our cases and ensure the best outcomes for the children. She oversees cases and supervises advocates for children in Gregg, Upshur, and Rusk counties. With a caseload of 22 Sarah plays an active role in the lives of children—eight of whom she personally advocates for—kids navigating the foster care system. She provides a steady, unwavering presence in a child’s life when everything else is uncertain.
What CASA Does & Why It Matters
A CASA is often the only consistent figure in a foster child’s life. Sarah explains that a CASA provides stability in a system where so much is uncertain.
“Our role isn’t just to meet with them once a month. We’re there for them, showing up to court, talking with their families, and showing them they’re not alone. A CASA advocate answers the phone when a child needs help.”
When a child enters the system, CASA steps in immediately. From the 14-day adversary hearing to the final placement. Whether it concerns reunification, guardianship, or adoption, CASA remains involved, providing guidance, advocacy, and support. Sarah says CASA’s role is to ensure that no child falls through the cracks, no matter how long the case takes.
“Success isn’t always about the big wins. Sometimes, it’s just making sure a kid knows they have someone to call. Sometimes, it’s standing firm when DFPS disagrees with a placement because we see firsthand what’s best for the child. Every day we make a difference, even a small one, is a success.”
How Connect Our Kids is Changing the Game
One of the biggest challenges CASA faces is finding family—locating and engaging relatives who may be willing to step up for a child. This is where Connect Our Kids comes in.
“It’s a process, but the tools are so helpful,” Sarah says. “Before, family finding meant digging through old records and relying on outdated contact lists. Now, we can map out connections quickly and reach people we might not have known existed.”
Sarah is particularly excited about using the tools with teenagers.
“Giving teens more involvement in their cases helps them feel empowered. These tools open up new possibilities for them to reconnect with family and have a say in where they go.”
Advice for Others in CASA
Sarah offers advice for other CASA supervisors and advocates hesitant to dive into new tools:
“Just jump in. It seems intimidating initially, but once you start using it, you’ll see how much it helps. We all have different strengths, and I try to match tools to those who would benefit most. Don’t be afraid to experiment and find what works for your team.”
Sarah’s deep commitment to CASA shines through in everything she does, from mentoring volunteers to standing up for the children in her care.
“Every CASA makes a critical difference,” she says.“We can change a child’s future by showing up, listening, and fighting for what’s right. I’m honored to be a part of that.”
