CASA Advocate Keri Boyd
Life often takes us to unexpected places. Twists, turns, and forks in the road can bring us to destinations far different than we ever anticipated. And yet other times, where we end up seems like destiny—it makes so much sense, we can’t imagine ourselves anywhere else. When Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) Keri Boyd thinks back, it feels as if her heart was planted on the path to helping children right from the start.
“I have always had a passion for foster children, it’s always been near and dear to my heart,” says Keri. “My grandmother’s best friend and neighbor ran a foster home. In the summers, when my grandmother had me over to visit, there were always new children to play with. My college entrance essay was actually about Mary and her foster home, and my experience of meeting these children. I have such fond memories.”
Years later as an adult with a fulltime career, Keri heard about CASA of NH from her mother, who was looking into volunteering. “I just wasn’t in a place to foster or adopt, so this fit into my lifestyle. I could speak on the best interests of children who are in the foster care system. That’s how this all pieced together.”
When advocating for a child, many times the CASA volunteer is the one caring, consistent adult in that child’s life. Over the duration of the case social workers, living placements, and other points of contact might change. But the CASA is always there, showing up when they say they will, and speaking up for what is in the child’s best interest for today, and for their future.
Keri takes this responsibility seriously. “I call them my CASA kids, or my CASA babies. I treat them as my own, and how I would want my own child to be treated. I’m a CASA mama bear, I’m fierce for them. I want them to be protected, and healthy and safe, and I want them to be able to dream big. However I can get that for them, that’s what I want for them. I want all those things.”
Not long ago, Keri had a chance to see the culmination of her fierce advocacy. “I recently went to my first adoption proceeding,” she recounts. “It was such a positive experience. It was such an honor and privilege that they included me, and to watch the process. The mother had already adopted two older children, and they were all dressed up in their matching outfits. My CASA child had a little sign, and they had a photographer, and we all went out to eat after. It was really nice to be included, and it was a very special moment. It was a long and tough case, over two years, and it was nice to see such a positive outcome for this child.”
CASA of NH staff member Brendon Jalbert, who advises and supports Keri as her Advocate Supervisor, sees the dedication she puts into her casework. “Keri is so passionate about her kiddos, and knows her cases better than anyone else,” he says. “She is one of the gold standards for CASA. Very detailed, passionate and a steadfast advocate for her kiddos.” These are the qualities, not any special background or training, that make for a first-rate advocate. For those who, like Keri, have a heart to help children, CASA of NH’s comprehensive training provides all the additional knowledge and skills needed.
Six years on, Keri couldn’t be happier with her decision to become a CASA. “This role is a blessing,” she says. “If you want something that gives so much value for the effort you put in, and you want to really help someone, this is the place to be. To be the voice of children is invaluable. If you have the time to do this, it’s priceless.”
If you would like to become a CASA volunteer advocate and help children, consider attending an upcoming virtual information session to learn more, or submit an application today.
