CASA Volunteer of the Month Shelby Thorne: 'You're Never Alone in Making a Difference'

CASA volunteer Shelby Thorne

Shelby Thorne always knew she wanted to support youth in foster care, but she wasn’t sure how.

Years ago, she learned about CASA – a program that enables volunteers to advocate for abused and neglected children in family court. She didn’t have the time to commit — but the mission stuck with her.

“It stuck with me for years, until I finally was in a position where I was able to commit to volunteering,” she said.

Now, a year after being sworn in as a CASA volunteer, Thorne is still advocating for the same three children she was first matched with. And thanks in part to her efforts, those children have been able to remain safely with their family and access new resources and support.

“She has been an incredible advocate for the children on her case,” said Jennifer Lamb, Thorne’s CASA Volunteer Manager. “She has also supported and encouraged the entire family. Shelby is a constant reminder that an adult is listening and reporting their needs.”

CASA volunteers complete a 30-hour training and then are matched with children in the family court system. They meet with the children at least once a month, gather information about their needs, and submit reports to the judge about how the children are doing and what might help them thrive.

“CASA has been such a valuable experience,” Thorne said. “I felt an immediate connection to the children I was matched with. I’ve had the pleasure of watching them learn and grow and experience new things.”

She said the support from fellow volunteers and her Volunteer Manager has helped her stay grounded through the challenges.

“One thing about volunteering with CASA is that you’re never alone in trying to make a difference,” she said. “You’re surrounded by great people working to do the same thing.”

Outside of CASA, Thorne works full-time and goes to school part-time — but said volunteering fits into her life.

“For anyone considering becoming a CASA volunteer, I would say that if it is on your heart to do it, do it,” she said. “As a volunteer, you’re mostly able to schedule meetings and CASA work around your schedule.”