Cynthia Balistocky Named a Volunteer of the Month for May 2021

When Cynthia Balistocky and her husband moved from California to Kentucky, one of her requirements was that her new home have a CASA program.

"Being a CASA volunteer is a top priority in my life and is by far my favorite 'job,'" she said.

Balistocky, who served as a CASA volunteer with Voices for Children in San Diego, chose to live in the heart of the Bluegrass. She signed up to be a CASA volunteer with CASA of Lexington, and has advocated for the best interests of five abused and neglected children over the past two and a half years.

Balistocky's dedication and persistence in being a voice for vulnerable children is why CASA of Lexington is naming her a Volunteer of the Month for May 2021.

"Cynthia is incredibly dedicated to the kids she serves. She creates connections with both the parents and children on her cases," said Beka Schwartz, Balistocky's Volunteer Manager in Bourbon County. "What makes her an extraordinary volunteer is that she's always persistent and professional when working with other people on the case and travels hours to visit her CASA kids. She's never afraid to speak up in court to ensure her CASA kids have a voice."

Balistocky is one of 17 CASA volunteers in Bourbon County, who are advocating for 36 abused or neglected children. CASA volunteers are regular people who spend 5-10 hours a month visiting the children on their case, interviewing adults involved in the children's lives, and providing reports to the judge on the case.

Balistocky said she finds it rewarding "whenever I am that voice that made the difference for my children."

"The biggest reward is seeing them benefit from my advocacy and the subsequent thank you I receive. That’s what it’s all about," she said. "... The first time you see your child making a mad dash toward your car or you get that big bear hug, you’ll know you made the right choice to become a CASA."