There’s something deeply powerful about two people coming together with a shared purpose—to amplify the voice of children in the foster care system who may otherwise go unheard. For CASA advocates Kathy Ogburn and Sherry Garvin, serving as a team has strengthened their resolve and impact in ways they never expected.
Kathy’s introduction to CASA came during her early years as a foster parent. Even when she stepped away from fostering, she knew her heart hadn’t stepped away from children. “The idea of helping kids that can’t help themselves,” she said, is what drew her to CASA. For Sherry, her path was more winding—learning about CASA while working in downtown Dallas, but not stepping into advocacy until years later in Denton. A nudge from a friend and fellow advocate was the final push she needed.
Their motivations are heartfelt. Kathy finds joy in simply being there for the kids. “I get to love on them a little bit,” she said, her eyes lighting up. “It warms my soul.” For Sherry, the reward is in the deeper connections she’s able to build, especially with older children navigating tough emotional terrain. “They are okay and amazing just the way they are,” she says. Her goal? Helping them realize that truth for themselves.
But being a CASA volunteer isn’t all heart; it’s also about knowledge, resilience, and stepping into unfamiliar roles. Kathy admits she was surprised by the level of influence CASA volunteer advocates hold in court. “Many times, even other parties in the case are using information from our court report to build on.” Sherry was struck by how deeply rooted CASA is in Texas law. “It must have been important enough to be put into the Texas Family Code.”
Currently, the two are tackling a complex case involving several children across multiple placements. Without their partnership, they both agree that this particular case might be very challenging for new volunteers. “We each bring different strengths,” Kathy said. “Sherry’s mind is so organized, and she knows how to work with the school system like a pro.” In turn, Sherry sees Kathy as the nurturing presence every child needs, someone who brings warmth and care into even the most clinical situations.
They divide responsibilities strategically. Sherry often focuses on the older children, Kathy on the younger. Their different perspectives help them catch things the other might miss, and their mutual trust gives them the confidence to act boldly, whether it’s requesting school records or showing up at court.
To those considering becoming a CASA volunteer, both advocates are unequivocal in their encouragement. “Do it,” Kathy says simply. Sherry adds, “It does take time, but partnering with someone can help. It’s worth it.” Having the team and the staff behind us makes all the difference,” Sherry adds, referring to the incredible support from their CASA casework supervisor and other staff.
Beyond their current case, both women are looking ahead with hope. Kathy finds herself praying for the children she serves, preparing her heart for the more difficult cases that may come. “I hope I can do them well,” she says. “Kids deserve it. Families deserve it too. Sometimes parents just need a little help to get there.”
In the world of child advocacy, no one can do it all, but when two committed people bring their unique strengths together, the result is extraordinary. Kathy and Sherry are living proof that teamwork, compassion, and consistency can change the course of a child’s life, and positively impact a family.
CASA of Denton County is facing a critical need for CASA volunteer advocates. The first step is to attend an in-person or virtual Info Session to learn about becoming a CASA volunteer advocate. To learn more, go to https://casadenton.org/volunteer/volunteer-info-session/ or contact Beth Potter at bpotter@casadenton.org
