CASA of Terrebonne, Inc.

CASA of Terrebonne's mission is to be a voice for children in foster care by advocating independently and objectively in the courts for their best interest.

At CASA of Terrebonne, we believe that every child should have a safe and nurturing home and a voice in their own story. Once a child is placed into the state's custody, CASA provides a community volunteer who is trained in making the best recommendation while advocating for a foster child's best interest. Being part of the CASA of Terrebonne community, you are helping to support an overwhelmed foster care system.

Testimonials

CASA of Terrebonne volunteer, Sarah Ghere, was recognized as the Advocate of the Year by Louisiana CASA at the 2022 Awards of Excellence ceremony. Sarah was CASA of Terrebonne's volunteer of the year for 2021 and had worked on two cases in the last few years. The first case was worked with her husband and ended in reunification. The second case was not so much a choice but a suggestion as a result of the circumstances. We the staff knew that if anyone could continue the support that the children needed, it would be this partnership. Although there was hesitation as a result of the age group, they agreed. The staff and her Advocate Supervisor slowly saw a connection form although it took some time because these children had already been through two CASA volunteers. But that did not stop our duo from showing up and bribing them with food, because you know teenagers love food. Dropping off food soon became a conversation and then those conversations became advice and support for their future and immediate needs. Although this case started as a duo, the partnership became one. Working on the case solo, Sarah questioned whether she has even made a difference, but we knew and saw the impact she was having. Sarah has been through so much with them from searching the streets when one ran away, to dealing with the group home, the juvenile justice system, the sibling conflicts, and being disliked when one had to take anger management classes for the second time. She stuck by them in those hard times and she was their number-one supporter. Sarah's 17-year-old CASA child appreciates her coming to most of his football and basketball games. He states that she has always been there when he needed something and he appreciates her always asking about his needs. Her 18-year-old CASA child stated that he appreciates her checking up on him and keeping in touch even after he aged out. He is very thankful to Sarah for coordinating and being there for his senior pictures and most of all for attending his graduation. He also appreciates how she gives them their space and allows them to talk about things they want to talk about. He felt comfortable talking to her about everything and he appreciated her trying to keep him on the right track but most of all he thanked her for the ride during hurricane Ida when nobody else would. We at CASA of Terrebonne want to also thank you, Sarah, for all of your hard work and dedication to these children. We know Gabby, their previous CASA, is looking down on us and she couldn't be any prouder of them and you for stepping up.