Meet Jean
Jean is a retired high school English teacher whose lifelong dedication to young people naturally led her to become a CASA volunteer. Throughout her career, she supported students not only academically, but emotionally – helping them navigate the challenges of adolescence with patience, compassion, and care.
That depth of experience serves her well in her CASA role. Jean understands how to connect with teens, listen closely, and advocate thoughtfully. She draws on years of guiding young people through difficult moments to provide steady, meaningful support to the adolescent she serves today.
Why She Became a CASA
Jean first learned about CASA through her sister, a family law attorney in Illinois. The more she learned about the role, the more she felt called to step in and make a difference. As Jean puts it, “It is an understatement to say that growing up is difficult.” She shared that it breaks her heart to know that some children must face the complex challenges of our world without a consistent, caring support system to guide them.
“My work as a CASA volunteer is important to me because, in this role, I can help ensure that the safety nets our society has put in place for our most vulnerable are being accessed and utilized effectively,” Jean explains.
Fostering Friendships with Seniors
Jean’s heart for advocacy spans generations. Alongside her passion for supporting children, she deeply values the life experiences of older adults. She builds meaningful friendships with seniors in her neighborhood and volunteers as a patient, caring companion for individuals in hospice.
Thanks for everything that you do for our communities, Jean!
At Kids Matter CASA, we are endlessly inspired by volunteers like Jean—people who step up, even during uncertain times, to stand beside children who need a voice. If you’re interested in becoming one of them, learn more about how you can get involved.