SPOTLIGHT ON: BETSEY STAHLER
Tell us a little about yourself. Where are you from? What’s your background?
I grew up in Wenatchee but moved away after I graduated from college. I moved back here in 2013.
What attracted you to this cause?
I have a friend that was a CASA both in Washington state and in Montana. When she talked about being a CASA, I knew that I wanted to do that someday.
Why is your CASA work meaningful to you?
My first master’s degree was in Marriage and Family Therapy. I did that work for about 8 years but moving to a different state every couple of years made that a difficult career to maintain. Being a CASA, particularly with the case I have, has allowed me to use some of that background even after I became a librarian. The other thing that means a lot to me is that I am the only original person still on this case. My kids have had so many social workers, attorneys and more!
What was most surprising to you about being a CASA Volunteer?
I am surprised about many things! I am surprised that there are so few options in our state for kids that have significant problems. I am surprised at how hard it is to work collaboratively with social workers, etc., who are so busy. I am surprised at how often I want to quit and at how often I am glad I haven’t!
How has being a CASA Volunteer changed you?
This is the hardest question… I have learned a lot about myself and oh my do I appreciate the life I have had — and the privilege. Really.
What would you say to someone who is considering becoming a volunteer?
One of the things that has been really important to me is the help and patience I have received from the CASA staff — when I forget reports, get behind, don’t return paperwork on time, etc. I would want new volunteers to know that there is support available when a case is hard, or the paperwork and reports are overwhelming. I can’t imagine ever regretting doing the training and taking even just one case.
Is there anything else you would like to share with me?
Just that I have only had one case in my 7+ years of being a CASA. Many volunteers have many cases — of which I am glad — but for me this particular case has been enough (and sometimes more than enough)! Maybe someday I will take another case…