From Classroom to CASA: Linda Grumley DuFour Continues Her Lifelong Commitment to Children

CASA of the River Region
Jun 5
2 min read

After more than 40 years working with students identified as having Emotional Disabilities, Linda Grumley DuFour retired with a deep understanding of the complex challenges faced by children and families navigating trauma, instability, and family dysfunction. Throughout her career in education, she worked closely with students who needed consistent support, structure, and advocacy to help them succeed both in and outside the classroom.

Over time, Linda witnessed firsthand the impact that CASA volunteers can have in the lives of children involved in the court system. Several Court Appointed Special Advocates she encountered through her professional work left a lasting impression on her. Inspired by their commitment, she made a promise to herself: when she retired, she would become a CASA Volunteer Advocate.

Linda completed her CASA training in October 2025 and has quickly embraced her new role as an advocate for children in Dependency, Neglect, and Abuse cases. Although she is still early in her CASA journey, she brings decades of experience in building relationships with children and families who may initially be hesitant to trust others.

She is especially drawn to the process of developing meaningful connections over time—taking small, intentional steps that lead to growth and stability for the children and families she serves. Linda values the gradual progress that comes from consistency, patience, and trust-building, and she finds deep fulfillment in witnessing that growth firsthand.

Her current case offers a unique opportunity, as she is advocating for a teenage parent, allowing her to support both the youth and their child. Linda describes this experience as especially meaningful, as it expands her ability to build relationships across generations within the same family system.

Even early in her service, Linda reflects that she feels like she is “just getting started.” She looks forward to continuing her advocacy work and deepening her impact as a CASA Volunteer Advocate, ensuring that children have a consistent voice and dedicated support throughout their court involvement.