18 Years of Advocacy: Tony and Carolyn Garner’s Lasting Impact

For nearly two decades, Tony and Carolyn Garner have quietly and faithfully shown up for children who needed someone in their corner. As Court Appointed Special Advocates with CASA of the River Region, this husband-and-wife team has devoted 18 years of service to advocating for children who have experienced abuse and neglect, helping them move toward safe, stable, and permanent homes.

Their journey into CASA began with a simple but powerful desire:“To make a difference in our community, and we thought what better way to do that than to help the children and the families.”

That commitment has carried them through nearly two decades of cases, court hearings, home visits, and countless moments where their presence made a difference in a child’s life.

The Power of Second Chances

For Tony and Carolyn, one of the most meaningful parts of their work has been witnessing transformation.

“Seeing the parents and the children reunited in most cases, and the parents realizing what they are and will be missing out on in their life… and the children later in their lives most having gotten a second chance for a normal life.”

Their words reflect one of the core goals of CASA advocacy: helping families heal when possible and ensuring children have the opportunity for a brighter future. Whether through reunification or another permanent placement, Tony and Carolyn have walked alongside families during some of their most difficult seasons.

A Moment They’ll Never Forget

After 18 years, it is hard for them to choose just one story that stands out. But one moment has stayed with them.

They recall a case involving an eight-year-old girl who had never experienced many of the basic comforts most children take for granted. She had never had her own room, never had clothes that fit properly, and struggled with everyday routines like brushing her teeth and hair or navigating school expectations.

When she arrived at her foster home, something simple became extraordinary.

“It was the first time she had her own bedroom, but also a room with a door on it. We watched her stand and just open and close her door.”

That small act spoke volumes. It represented safety. Privacy. Stability. A sense of belonging.

In time, she was adopted by her foster mother. Tony and Carolyn have stayed in touch over the years and have watched her grow into a confident, thriving young woman.

The Lasting Impact of Advocacy

For the Garners, the impact of their work does not end when a case closes.

“We have, over the years, had kids from some of our cases come up to us and tell us how their lives have changed and that they are happy. That gives us the encouragement to see if we can help another child or family.”

Moments like these are what continue to inspire them. They are reminders that consistent, compassionate advocacy can change the trajectory of a child’s life.

A Legacy of Service

Tony and Carolyn Garner exemplify what it means to be a CASA volunteer. Their 18 years of dedication have touched countless lives, offering children not just advocacy in the courtroom, but hope for the future.

Their story is a powerful reminder that lasting change often begins with ordinary people choosing to show up, again and again, for those who need it most.

Get Involved

If Tony and Carolyn’s story inspires you, there are meaningful ways to be part of this work:

• Become a CASA Volunteer: Be the voice for a child in need by visiting www.casariverregion.org/volunteer

• Support Our Mission: Help us continue serving children and families by donating at www.casariverregion.org/donate-now

Together, we can ensure more children have the opportunity for a safe, stable, and hopeful future.