Volunteer Spotlight: Mary Espinosa

Name: Mary EspinosaService Site: Washington County MarylandHow long have you been a CASA volunteer? I have been a CASA Volunteer for 2.5 yearsWork Experience outside of CASA: I have worked with Mentally Challenged, Physically Disabled individuals. I have worked in the mental health and addictions field for over eight years.How did you hear about CASA, and what made you decide to volunteer?  I heard about CASA through Billboards in town. I thought that it sounded like something that I would enjoy doing, and it would be something that would help me give back to my community.Describe your current case: I currently work with two young brothers, whose parents have suffered from addiction for most of their lives. The boys are placed in kinship placement and are doing very well. They are bright, bubbly individuals.What sorts of activities do you and your CASA child/youth like to do together? We enjoy going to the playground, playing games like UNO, cars, playing hide and seek, and playing on the merry-go-round.What is the most rewarding part of being a CASA volunteer? Being able to make a difference in other’s lives in a positive way.What is one thing you would say to someone else interested in volunteering? It is a great opportunity, don’t miss it!What are CASA volunteers doing to help overcome the challenges faced by today’s youth?  They are continuing to provide in service trainings regarding the challenges and the successes that surround today’s youth. Volunteers are the youth’s voice during a time that they might not have one.