”The One Constant in a Child’s Life” – A Conversation with Natalie Natusch from Wayne-Union CASA

When a child enters the foster care system due to abuse or neglect, their world is turned upside down. In an instant, they’re surrounded by unfamiliar faces—caseworkers, attorneys, foster parents, therapists—all trying to help, but all stretched thin. Amid this whirlwind of change, what if one adult focused solely on the child’s best interests? One person who showed up consistently, listened, and stood by them every step of the way?

That’s where CASA steps in.

In this moving episode, Natalie Natusch from Wayne-Union CASA joins host Lindsay Darnell to share the incredible impact of Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA). These trained volunteers aren’t social workers or lawyers—they’re everyday people from all walks of life who serve as a steady presence for children navigating one of the most traumatic times in their lives. And the impact they have is life-changing.

Natalie explains how CASA volunteers become the eyes, ears, and voice of the child in court. While most professionals in the system are juggling multiple cases—sometimes dozens—a CASA volunteer is typically assigned to just one child or sibling group at a time. That focus allows for a deep, personal relationship, and ensures the child doesn’t fall through the cracks of an overburdened system.

The results speak volumes. Research shows that children with CASA advocates are:

• More likely to succeed in school
• Less likely to re-enter foster care
• More likely to find a permanent, stable home

Natalie shares powerful stories, including one about six siblings who experienced severe abuse and trafficking. Thanks to the unwavering support of a CASA volunteer, they were not only kept together but eventually reunited with their rehabilitated parents—proof that healing and hope are possible, even in the most difficult situations.

But the need is still great. As of now, 109 children in Wayne and Union counties are waiting for someone to be their advocate. Becoming a CASA volunteer requires commitment—30 hours of initial training, monthly visits with the assigned child, and ongoing communication with professionals in the case. But the most important qualification isn’t legal knowledge or social work experience—it’s simply a heart for children.

If you’ve ever wondered how to make a real difference in your community, this is your moment.

You can learn more about CASA and how to get involved by visiting www.wayneunioncasa.org. Join their next informational session on July 30th at Morrison Reeves Library, or stop by their booth at upcoming community events like Archway Days to meet the team and ask questions.

One volunteer. One child. One life forever changed. You could be the person a child in foster care is waiting for.