Join Shelley: Support Denver CASA

For over 30 years, Denver CASA has recruited and trained volunteers to serve in the 2nd Judicial District of Denver advocating for children and providing a stable, caring adult to help children through a difficult time.

This Colorado Gives Day, I am excited to raise funds for Child Advocates - Denver CASA! As a board member, I know first-hand the incredible impact and value of a CASA Volunteer. So many of the children and youth we serve need a consistent, caring adult in their lives - something a CASA Volunteer is uniquely positioned to do. Denver CASA relies on the generosity of individual and corporate donors to continue training quality, expert volunteers to advocate for children. 

Below you can find a story of a successful case that touched my heart: 

Sharifa and her sister came to the states as young teens without family. Sharifa knew what it meant to lose a sense of home long before she had the words to describe it. As an Afghan teenager navigating life in a new country, Sharifa was carrying the weight of profound change without the guidance of her parents. She had left behind her home, her family, her culture, and the familiarity of everything she once knew. In their place was a quiet loneliness that, over time, deepened into depression. That’s when Sharifa met Hannah Ellman. Hannah served as the CASA Volunteer for both sisters, as well as their OYP mentor.

Hannah recognized that Sharifa needed help with her depression. She researched opportunities to help Sharifa rediscover joy and build meaningful connections. Together, they found outdoor programs created for girls just like Sharifa who were rebuilding their lives after great loss.  Sharifa also became a regular participant at the Older Youth Program Connection Events where she formed new friendships that felt genuine and lasting. She also gained confidence in navigating new environments, and began to build community in her life. These experiences changed the trajectory of her well-being. Her health improved. Her sense of belonging grew stronger. And her voice began to emerge. 

With new found confidence, Hannah helped Sharifa find a job and advocate for herself when she wanted a raise and better hours. Recently, they have worked through critical milestones of young adulthood including learning to drive, applying for college and scholarships, and finding housing options. Throughout this journey, Sharifa and Hannah have enjoyed many meals as they explore the restaurants in Denver that serve Afghani food.

When asked to reflect on Hannah’s influence, Sharifa said, “She is one of the best people who has helped me here in the United States. God bless her. She has been overly supportive, and I couldn’t appreciate it more, she has supported me physically, mentally, and emotionally.” 

This spring, Sharifa graduated from high school surrounded by her friends, her mentor Hannah and current and past foster parents. With Hannah’s help, she has created a community of support that cheers her victories and will be there to guide her through the next challenge. This fall, Sharifa will attend the University of Colorado Denver and looks forward to starting the next chapter of her life.

I'm asking for your help to ensure Denver CASA can continue providing these essential services. State and federal funding cuts have been felt around the country and yet cases are continually getting more complicated. Your matched contribution could not come at a more important time. Thank you for your support.