Through the Child Advocates training program and courtroom observation sessions, Carrie learned how to become an effective volunteer. She has since worked with seven clients in four families. While all of her clients have been young children who may not fully comprehend her advocacy work, they understand that she's helped them on their path towards stability and permanency.  Carrie says, "It is incredibly rewarding to know that through my efforts, my clients finally receive the therapy, educational services or even school busing that was desperately needed."
 

For Carrie, one particular case stands out. "I had just returned from maternity leave and was assigned a new Child Advocates 
case.  My client turned out to be only a few weeks older than my infant son.  Over the years, I struggled with many of the decisions that we recommended on behalf of my client, especially as they related to termination of parental rights. Ultimately, my client was adopted by a loving family (and they occasionally still send me pictures!)."

Carrie's advice for anyone who may consider becoming a volunteer Child Advocates lawyer..."Go for it!  Your life will be enriched in more ways than you know." Carrie was most recently honored as a 2013 Child Advocates Distinguished Advocate. Thank you for all your hard work for our children, Carrie!