How CASA volunteers leave a lifelong impact on the kids they help

One former CASA kid still keeps in contact with her volunteer, as she says she made her feel seen throughout her court case - 13 On Your Side's Luis Lopez reports

YUMA, Ariz. (KYMA, KECY) - Stephanie Ordaz was 11 years old when she was put into foster care.

As the court was determining who should be her primary guardian, a Court Appointed Special Advocate, also referred to as a CASA volunteer helped the girl throughout her case.

"In court you don’t really get to talk, like there’s all these adults talking about you, but you don’t really ever get to say your peace as the child,” Ordaz said.

As Ordaz’s case continued, she was given a CASA volunteer at 13 years old.

Vicki Dokos-Nelson, who had also been a volunteer for other kids, gained a special bond with Ordaz quickly.

“Just to see this healthy person wanting to spend time with me it was just, it meant a lot,” Ordaz said.

Nelson found out Ordaz had a passion for animal and the two began to volunteer at the Humane Society Of Yuma Thrift Store.

They went once a week and would work three to four hours a shift.

“I think she learned a lot working with the other people, older people, younger people and different attitudes, different ethnic groups, it was all good training for now, how she’s facing life today,” Nelson said.

Today, Ordaz is a middle school guidance counselor, and still keeps in touch with Nelson who is grateful to maintain the connection.

“To know that something I did affected this young lady, and she still remembers me fondly and positively, wow, what more could I ask for,” Nelson said.

Right now there are kids just like Ordaz in need of their own volunteers, as there are just 39 volunteers to help the 122 kids who need one.

If you'd like to become a CASA volunteer, you can apply through their website.

Part of the process to become a volunteer is a required academy to be educated on the process. The program's next academy will be on May 11-13.