Supporting foster care reunification is essential for children and families in the Chattahoochee Valley. One inspiring example is the story of A, a young child who overcame tremendous challenges with the guidance of Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA).

A Difficult Beginning

In January 2024, A, just six months old, entered foster care after a traumatic incident. His mother was found unresponsive due to a substance overdose, and his father faced incarceration on drug charges. Both parents admitted to using drugs while caring for A. As a result, his grandmother became his temporary caregiver. This situation required consistent advocacy and support to ensure A’s safety and well-being.

How Chattahoochee CASA Supported A

On July 10, 2024, CASA volunteers began working with A. They built a strong, supportive relationship and stayed in regular contact with his daycare staff to ensure he received continuous care. The volunteers visited both his grandmother’s and mother’s homes to monitor safety and advocate for uninterrupted services.

Mother’s Commitment to Recovery

A’s mother worked tirelessly to regain custody. She attended parenting classes, completed counseling, finished the family treatment court program, maintained twelve months of clean drug screens, secured stable income and housing, and kept consistent visitation. She earned recognition as a “star participant” in the family treatment court program. Furthermore, she voluntarily enrolled in a relapse prevention program to stay on track.

A Joyful Reunification

On October 7, 2024, A returned to his mother’s custody under a protective order. After a year and seven months in foster care, and with CASA by his side, the final protective order ended. His mother completed the family treatment court program successfully. The case closed on August 25, 2025, with a joyful reunification between mother and child.

The Importance of Foster Care Reunification

CASA volunteers ensure children in foster care have a voice and that their best interests come first. In Georgia, approximately 11,000 children live in foster care. Programs like CASA provide crucial support for reunification and long-term stability. With consistent advocacy and care, children like A can safely return home and thrive.

Moving Forward

A and his mother now start a new chapter together. Their story shows how advocacy, community support, and structured programs can help children succeed in foster care reunification.

How You Can Help

You can make a difference in the lives of children like A by:

• Volunteering: Become a CASA volunteer or support programs that serve children and families in need.
• Advocating: Share information about foster care and CASA to raise awareness in your community.
• Giving to United Way: Your support funds programs like Twin Cedars Youth and Family Services and Chattahoochee CASA. Contributions provide children and families with the guidance and resources they need to thrive.

By volunteering, advocating, or giving, you help children build stronger futures.

To protect the privacy of clients, the individual’s name has been omitted, and a stock photo has been used in this article. All personal details have been modified to ensure confidentiality.