Retired educator keeps working with kids by serving as a CASA volunteer

CASA Volunteer of the Month Kelly Sampson

Kelly Sampson knew how she wanted to volunteer after she retired, because she had seen firsthand the need. She wanted to become a CASA volunteer and advocate for the best interests of an abused or neglected child.

Sampson’s career spanned 39 years as a teacher, principal and clinical professor. But she did not want to be done working with children when she was done working.

“When I was a principal, we didn’t have CASA volunteers. But we had children that desperately needed them,” she said. “Once I learned about CASA, I decided when I retired, being an advocate for children would be exactly where I wanted to spend my volunteer time.”

Sampson went through the 30-hour training class to become a CASA volunteer and has now served for two years. She visits her two CASA children monthly, pays attention to what is happening in their lives, and makes recommendations to the judge on their case.

“The girls look forward to our regular home visits and we have built a close relationship,” Sampson said.

Lauren Hurst, Sampson’s Volunteer Manager who supports her in her volunteer work, nominated Sampson to be a CASA Volunteer of the Month because of her consistency and compassion.

“Kelly is a consistent presence in her CASA children’s lives, especially as they have undergone a lot of change, including being removed from their home,” Hurst said. “Kelly’s dedication to the family she works with and the CASA mission is so evident. It is truly an honor to work with her.”

Sampson said she wants many more people to join her in volunteering with CASA of Lexington.

“If you are considering becoming a CASA volunteer, please don’t hesitate. There are so many children that desperately need an advocate,” she said. “You can make a positive difference in children’s lives.”