This month’s spotlight is on Stephanie Johnson. This busy mother of three children has been a CASA since February 2009. She owns a property management company that manages over 200 rentals. She has two boys and one daughter. Her oldest son is a sophomore at Wabash College and her other two children attend Mater Dei.
Thank you Stephanie for all of your hard work and commitment to CASA! We sure are happy you were listening to the radio that day!
What inspired you to become a CASA?
I heard Suzanne Draper on a morning radio spot highlighting CASA. As a mother of 3 with a background in elementary education, she hit my “soft spot” and knew CASA was an organization I needed to be involved in.
What has surprised you most about being a CASA?
I am amazed at the diversity of the volunteers. We all have different backgrounds and motivations but our common goal is the same, the children.
What is the best/worst thing that has happened to you as a CASA?
There are several lows I have experienced in my tenure as a CASA; watching a child being removed from their parent(s), watching a child being placed back with their biological parent when the parent is not ready, and watching a parents rights be terminated.
The best experience is watching a new family being created through a CHINS court adoption.
The most meaningful event of your time as a CASA?
I was able to watch one of my CASA kids be awarded the Youth First Don Mattingly Award for a child who has overcome adversity. Nick managed to overcome more obstacles in his 18 yrs. than many of us face in a lifetime. He continues to amaze me with his strength and resilience. He is currently in his second semester of college at USI.
What are some of your strongest beliefs about CASA?
This question made me laugh! CASA has taught me that beliefs can be changed.
What do you wish other people knew about CASA?
CASA volunteers can change a child’s life.
What would you say to someone considering becoming a CASA?
Volunteering as a CASA is a rewarding experience. Try it! You might be surprised.
Something we would be surprised to know about you?
I am a HUGE fan of high school and college wrestling.
What do you like to do when you aren’t volunteering as a CASA?
I enjoy boating and outdoor activities with my family.
