We are pleased to welcome our newest, part-time Case Supervisor, Diego Cubas! Originally from Montgomery County, Maryland, Diego is a University of Kentucky graduate, where he earned his bachelor’s degree in international studies and comparative politics. During his time in Kentucky, Diego became a CASA volunteer at CASA of Lexington. Diego’s time at CASA of Lexington inspired him to become more involved with child welfare and the legal system. After returning home from Kentucky, Diego began in the immigration field, working at different law firms in Montgomery County. During this time, Diego was helping immigrant families in Maryland, focusing primarily on special immigrant juvenile status and asylum cases. Diego always had a passion for family law and the child welfare system, so he decided to return to his work as a CASA volunteer for VFCM, before being offered his new position as a Case Supervisor. We are delighted to have Diego join our team and know that, with all his experience, he will be a welcome addition to our staff.

Giving Tuesday is a global generosity movement, unleashing the power of people and organizations to transform their communities and the world, happening this year on December 3.

We continue to work toward providing a CASA volunteer for every child in Montgomery County foster care. That’s why this year on Giving Tuesday we are asking that you support Voices for Children Montgomery in one of the following ways:

• Follow us on social media: You can find us at @MontCoCASA on Instagram and @CASAMontgomeryCountyMD on Facebook 
• Encourage your network to get involved and support: We are always in need of more supporters and volunteers. If you can share this message with your network, that would go a long way toward helping us reach new potential supporters. 
• Volunteer: We’re always looking for more committed CASA volunteers. If you’re interested, you can learn more here. Our next training starts January 11.  
• Give: During this season of giving, if you feel moved to continue your financial support for Voices for Children Montgomery, we would truly appreciate your support.  

Join us as Smita Varia presents a refresher about the hold that domestic violence and intimate partner violence can have on people of all socio-economic and cultural backgrounds. Ms. Varia will speak about the effects of domestic violence and intimate partner violence on families and youth; how to recognize when a CASA youth is in an unhealthy relationship and how to talk about healthy relationships and support with your CASA youth. Ms. Varia will also share local resources and legal options for individuals experiencing domestic violence or intimate partner violence.

Everett* is a 6-year-old child who came to the attention of Child Welfare Services (CWS), along with his two younger siblings, in the summer of 2023. CWS received reports concerning past child welfare cases in two other counties and current concerns about neglect. Currently, the three siblings are in different placements. Everett is in a foster home in Montgomery County, his sister is in another foster home, and his brother is placed with a relative, who is willing to be a resource for all three children if she can figure out a way to support all three children in her current residence. Currently, Everett’s mother is not involved in the case and the identity of Everett’s father remains unknown to CWS. A CASA volunteer would be extremely helpful in advocating for Everett’s best interest, especially given his young age and the lack of parental involvement.  

Meg McHugh has been working with 18-year-old Ann* for two years. Ann, who has autism, came into care due to her mother neglecting her physical and medical needs. Ann resides in a group home. Although the group home has an excellent staff, Meg noticed that other residents had family visiting and wondered if she could support Ann in this area. Ann did not have any family members who visited her at the group home, since her mother had passed away. Meg contacted the social worker and recommended the Department arrange for a visit between Ann and her sister, whom Ann had never met. The Department social worker was not able to locate Ann’s sister initially. However, Meg continued to follow up with the social worker and eventually Ann’s sister was located. In July, Ann visited with her sister for the first time, and it was a wonderful visit that they both enjoyed. Another visit with Ann’s sister has been scheduled, and Ann is happy to have family visits like the other residents.

Darren Fenwick has been working with Shawn*, who is transitioning out of foster care. Shawn is busy working two jobs and preparing for independence. While Shawn expresses an appreciation for his CASA, he has not always been able to meet with Darren due to his busy schedule. Through Darren's persistent efforts to engage Shawn, Shawn has now become more responsive to Darren. Darren and Shawn have been able to discuss Shawn's future plans, and Darren has successfully advocated for Shawn's continued support as he transitions into adulthood. 

Thank you to each of the following CASA volunteers for your years of service and dedication to helping vulnerable children and youth. Happy Anniversary! 

Donations received from June 1 through September 30

Step into the role of a Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) volunteer and be the champion every child in Montgomery County, Maryland's foster care system needs. CASA volunteers bring a wealth of experiences to effectively advocate for abused and neglected children.

Voices for Children Montgomery relies on the generosity of individuals like you to sustain our mission. Please consider donating today to help us achieve our goal of serving all children in foster care in Montgomery County by 2026. Thank you for your support!