Big Country Casa volunteers make a difference in the lives of children in foster care

ABILENE, Texas — Since 2013, Big Country Casa has advocated for children in foster care, becoming a consistent connection for the children and families.

“We advocate for the child’s best interest which can involve educational needs, medical needs, psychological needs, or just making sure that the placement is appropriate and safe,” Assistant Executive Director Rebel Taylor said.

The volunteers and staff at Big Country Casa all share the same goal of making sure each child in foster care has a safe, positive experience; but their journeys motivating them to volunteer are unique.

“I’ve only been in Casa 2 months but my heart for children in foster care goes way back to us adopting from foster care four years ago,” Dana Ward

“I know what it’s like to feel like I don’t have a voice and I wanted to make sure that every child in foster care has a voice,” Taylor explained.

Being a voice and advocate has given Rebel title of auntie to many of the children she has helped. There is one child she will always remember who calls her stepmother.

“This is probably one of the most special gifts I’ve been given in my entire life,” Taylor said. “It’s really difficult walking with families during the darkest times of their lives. One of the most rewarding parts of what we do is helping families be reunified, and when that’s not possible, helping that child find permanency and safety in an adoptive family. So, this is one of the things I will cherish forever, being a part of his life story. I’ll always cherish seeing him in a family that adores him, that is raising him to be all that he is created to be.”

Anyone with a passion for helping children in foster care can apply to be a volunteer at bigcountrycasa.org.