Walking Alongside a Child: Meet CASA Volunteer Advocate Courtney Dillon

When a child’s life is marked by abuse, neglect and uncertainty, a consistent adult who listens, shows up and speaks up can make a lasting difference.

For the past two and a half years, CASA Volunteer Advocate Courtney Dillon has been that person for children involved in Family Court. Courtney became a CASA because she wanted to be there for children when they need an advocate most.

“I chose to become a CASA to serve children who need a strong voice and calming presence to advocate for their needs when their lives are in chaos.”

For Courtney, advocacy is about making sure children are heard and their needs remain at the center of decisions about their lives. It is also about building trust and being a positive, consistent presence for a child and their family. “My favorite thing about being a CASA is knowing that I am making a meaningful difference in a child's life and also a positive influence for their family.”

Finding Meaning in the Moments In Between

One of Courtney’s favorite memories illustrates the impact that can come from simply spending time together. During an outing with a girl she serves who had experienced tremendous loss, Courtney took her for a walk at a special place. Along the way, they paused to share memories of a loved one and talk about the happy times they had together.

What could have been an ordinary visit became a special time for the girl to reflect, share happy memories, and honor someone who meant so much to her.

For Courtney, it was a reminder that advocacy does not always happen in a courtroom or during a difficult conversation. Sometimes, it happens while walking beside a child, listening to their stories and creating space for what matters most to them.

Those moments may seem simple, but for a child navigating circumstances no child should have to face, having a trusted adult who consistently shows up can mean everything.

Why She Continues to Show Up

After two and a half years as a CASA Volunteer Advocate, Courtney continues to serve because she knows so many children still need someone in their corner.

“There are so many children in need, that's why I've continued as a CASA. They deserve to be represented and have an advocate who will fight for their safety and welfare.”

Courtney’s story is one of many. Every day, CASA Volunteer Advocates across our community show up for children in ways both big and small. They listen. They ask questions. They build relationships. They speak up. Sometimes, they simply walk alongside a child through a difficult season of life. This consistency and commitment make volunteer advocacy so powerful.

Could You Be That Person for a Child?

Children in our community are waiting for a CASA Volunteer Advocate of their own. Be the person who shows up, listens, and makes sure a child’s voice is heard. Learn more about becoming a CASA Volunteer Advocate: https://www.casarr.org/volunteer

Help More Volunteers Show Up for Children

Not everyone can become a CASA, but everyone can help make this work possible. Thursday, September 10, is Give for Good Louisville, our community’s biggest day of giving.

When you give to CASA through our Give for Good profile on September 10th, your gift will have double the impact, up to $12,500, thanks to a generous matching gift. Give for Good also offers opportunities for participating nonprofits to earn additional prize funds throughout the day.

Your support helps CASA recruit, train, and equip the Volunteer Advocates who stand beside children when they need a voice most.

Make your gift on September 10 and maximize your impact for children in our community.

Give to CASA through our Give for Good Louisville profile: https://www.giveforgoodlouisville.org/organization/casa-inc

Because every child deserves a voice and someone who will show up for them.