“A Steady Presence”: Saunie Poole’s Calling to Advocate for Teen Girls in Foster Care
- CASA of the River Region
- Aug 29
- 2 min read
When Saunie Poole first heard someone speak at her church about the impact of supporting children in foster care, she didn’t just listen—she felt called to act.
“I felt a deep calling to become a CASA,” she recalls. “From my very first case, I understood the importance of showing up—consistently and compassionately.”
Since 2022, Saunie has served as a Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) in Bullitt County, volunteering her time to stand beside children involved in the family court and foster care systems. For Saunie, that work has become a personal mission—especially when it comes to advocating for teenage girls, a group often facing unique challenges and emotional complexities.
“These children are counting on me,” she says. “They expect me to be there, and I realized I could make a small difference just by being a steady presence in their lives.”
Over the past two years, that “small difference” has added up to something powerful. Saunie has developed a unique and thoughtful approach that resonates with the teen girls she serves. She focuses on building trust, listening without judgment, and staying connected, even after official court involvement ends.
“While closing a case is often bittersweet,” she shares, “I find comfort in knowing that many of the youth I’ve supported continue to reach out and share updates on their lives.”
It’s that lasting connection—built one visit, one conversation, one moment at a time—that underscores the heart of CASA advocacy. Saunie isn’t just fulfilling a role; she’s changing the story for young people who need someone to believe in them.
Volunteers are needed throughout CASA of the River Region’s service area. Bullitt County has nearly 100 children waiting for someone just like Saunie—someone willing to show up and speak up when it matters most.
In recognition of her deep passion and unwavering commitment to serving children in her community, Saunie was honored with the President’s Volunteer Service Award and CASA of the River Region's 2025 All-Star Appreciation Award for “Limitless Enthusiasm.”
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Want to Make a Difference Like Saunie?
If you’ve ever felt called to support children in need, now is the perfect time to take the first step.
We’d love to see you at our Bullitt County CASA Open House — a warm and welcoming morning to connect, share a cup of coffee, and learn what CASA is all about. Whether you're curious about becoming a volunteer or want to learn how to support our mission, this event is for you!
📅 When: Tuesday, September 9, 2025, from 9:00 to 11:00 a.m.
📍 Where: CASA of the River Region – Bullitt County Office Located in the Jim Eadens Resource Center1191 Hillview Boulevard, Hillview, KY 40299
Come meet our team, hear real stories, and discover how you can help children in your own community feel seen, heard, and supported.
✨ Learn more about becoming a CASA Volunteer: www.casarr.org/volunteer