Joshua, a 3-year-old Autistic child, was removed from his home when Child Protective Services discovered both his parents were drug-addicted and neglecting their son. Joshua's father wanted to get his son back, and began court-ordered services. The DHS caseworker was not in favor of returning Joshua to his father at any point.

The CASA became very involved in the case, making sure he stayed in contact with Joshua's dad and all the service providers. The CASA observed most supervised visits between Joshua and his father.

In the process, the CASA began to witness something no one else had noticed: the strong bond between Joshua and his father. Joshua had never been able to make eye contact with anyone, but the CASA observed the visits and saw eye contact and a smile every time he saw his father. The CASA determined this father was sincere in his quest to regain custody of his son.

In court, the judge listened to the CASA's recommendations that Joshua be returned to his dad even though DHS was not in favor. The judge ruled in favor of the CASA's recommendations, and Joshua was returned to his father. Today, Joshua and his father are doing great together.