Debra Small: The Power of Showing Up

Children who enter the foster care system often face a constellation of social workers, attorneys, therapists, schools, and court hearings. Boston CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates) is a nonprofit that trains volunteers to become a consistent, independent voice focused on a child's best interests.

For Debra Small, the role was a good fit. "After I retired, I was looking for volunteering where I could maybe make some difference in a person’s life," she says, “Even a small one.”

Having spent her career as a nurse, Debra wanted to find meaningful volunteer work helping others while maintaining the flexibility to pursue her love of travel. She found Boston CASA through Cambridge Volunteers. “The statistics for kids in foster care are really tough. So that's why I started, and they offer great training at CASA. They're really supportive.”

Debra is now the advocate for a 17-year-old in the foster care system. They meet regularly, and Debra checks in with teachers, case workers, lawyers, and others involved in the teen's life. By focusing on a single child or sibling group and providing one-on-one attention, CASA volunteers can make a real difference. “I am a volunteer just for her to make sure she is heard and represented, and I have the time to explore community options and make recommendations.”

One example: when her teen expressed an interest in sports, Debra researched local options and shared findings with those who could enroll her. “I'm really just trying to make things work for her.”

Every few months, Debra brings together what she's learned in a report for the judge, which may include recommendations. The work isn't always easy. As a nurse, Debra was used to solving problems. As a CASA volunteer, her role is different. "You’re not there to fix it," she says. "But just being involved can make a difference. Every time I say I'm coming, I'm coming."

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Written by: Molly O'Brien

We are indebted to Molly, Debra, and the team at Boston CASA for this Volunteer Spotlight.

Click here to learn more about Boston CASA and how to get involved.

You can help Cambridge Volunteers connect more volunteers like Debra with the local nonprofits that need them. Support local volunteerism with a contribution today at www.cambridgevolunteers.org/donate.

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