Canadian County CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates), Inc. recognizes long-time volunteer Alex Corbitt. For seven years, Corbitt has served as a volunteer advocate speaking up for the best interests of children in the child welfare system on five different cases, with his longest case now running for six years.
Prior to joining CASA as a volunteer, Corbitt worked with both CASA of Oklahoma County and the Department of Human Services. It was during his time as a permanency planning worker with DHS that he first heard about CASA. A volunteer asked to speak with him about their shared case, and he learned the role and impact of a volunteer advocate speaking solely for the child’s best interest.
In describing why he became a CASA and why this work is important, Corbitt shared he first gave some thought to it while serving on the Post Adjudication Review Board (PARB). He knew it was important work to be a set of eyes and ears looking out for the best interests of children. More so, Corbitt was drawn to the opportunity to make a difference in a direct way in the life of a child. In comparing the role of a volunteer advocate to other volunteer opportunities, Corbitt notes he feels he is giving his time with a very hands-on approach. Asked if he had any hesitations before
Asked if he had any hesitations before becoming a volunteer, Corbitt was initially concerned about having enough time for casework. When he learned the time commitment is approximately 8-10 hours per month, Corbitt signed up and completed volunteer training in 2014. Additionally, Corbitt emphasizes the team approach, noting that volunteers will have a staff supervisor to help navigate the juvenile court and DHS systems, and that staff members are there to answer questions and offer guidance, advice, and counsel. He also shares that CASA staff don’t expect volunteers to know everything, especially when they’re new, and through continuing education advocates are always learning, growing, and developing.
Q – How does this type of volunteer work fit in with your schedule?
A – I am self-employed with a flexible work schedule, so it’s very easy to work around.
Q – What would you like future volunteers to know?
A – We need more child advocates. A lot of children are not represented, and volunteers can make sure the kids are not in this alone. Also, the program staff are very supportive.
Q – As a male volunteer, also seen as a role model or mentor, what positive changes have you seen in the boys on your cases?
A – They learn they are in control of their future despite what life dealt them, and they can make a difference. They learn to set realistic and attainable goals.
Q – Is there anything else you would like to share with potential volunteers?
A – Volunteering is a great opportunity to speak for those who cannot speak for themselves.
Staff Note: While Alex had a prior history of working with both DHS and CASA before becoming a volunteer himself, that is not a requirement to become a volunteer. CASA volunteers come from many backgrounds and make a connection with a child to let his or her voice be heard.
Canadian County CASA, Inc. is a non-profit organization dedicated to helping children that have been adjudicated by the court as abused or neglected. CASA’s vision is to match a qualified volunteer for any child in state custody in need of a voice and a safe, permanent, nurturing home. CASA trains community volunteers to advocate for these children. Often times they can be the one stable and long lasting adult in a child’s life as the child moves from foster home to foster home or even shelter to shelter.
With approximately 275 children in DHS custody in Canadian County alone, it is CASA’s goal to provide every child with a volunteer advocate to speak up for them and, in most cases, be the one consistent adult figure in their life. Currently, 79 children in DHS custody in Canadian County are being served with a Court Appointed Special Advocate.
For more information on how to become a CASA volunteer, make a financial contribution or to make additional inquiries, please contact Canadian County CASA at 405-264-5508 or info@canadiancountycasa.org.