From Foster Parent to CASA Volunteer, A Journey of Love and Service

Jared Middleton shares his story as a foster parent, CASA volunteer with TLC CASA, and advocate for children and families in crisis.  

Around eight years ago, my wife Robin and I stumbled upon TLC CASA in Dublin, Georgia, a discovery that would profoundly impact our lives. At the time, Robin, a dance instructor, was approached by a friend who had a foster child, let’s call her Susie, interested in taking dance lessons. The friend was concerned about the cost, but Robin and I quickly decided that financial barriers shouldn’t prevent this child from pursuing her interests. Robin graciously offered to teach Susie for free, and through this act of kindness, Susie entered our lives. 

As a pastor, I’m accustomed to guiding and supporting others, but fostering was never on my radar. However, when Susie’s situation with her current foster family didn’t work out, Robin suggested that we become her foster parents. Despite my initial hesitation, we decided to pursue it and went through an intensive training weekend in Brunswick, Georgia. This experience opened our eyes to the foster care system and introduced us to the work of TLC CASA. 

Our journey with Susie was transformative. Although we didn’t end up adopting her, she remained a significant part of our lives. Years later, she reconnected with Robin via Facebook and expressed her gratitude for the love and support we provided, emphasizing how our involvement shaped her into who she is today.  

Following Susie, we fostered a set of sisters who were the same age as our two boys. This experience was like having two sets of twins in the house, a challenging yet rewarding time. We learned to navigate the complexities of fostering, from managing school schedules to doing double ponytails (I had no idea it was so hard to make them perfectly even!) 

Our home also became a haven for emergency placements, including another set of sisters who stayed with us for a brief period. Each child brought unique challenges and joys, teaching us more about resilience and love. 

Fostering has taught me that control is an illusion. Despite our best efforts as parents, both biological and foster, there are countless factors beyond our control. As a youth pastor for 25 years, I had seen the struggles and heartbreaks of young people, but fostering brought these issues into our home, making them more immediate and personal. 

The emotional toll of fostering is significant. The foster care system is often like a ship that needs constant repairs while still sailing. It can be frustrating and heartbreaking, especially when decisions about the children’s futures are out of our hands. Yet, through it all, TLC CASA has been our rock, providing unwavering support and advocating for the children’s best interests. Fostering becomes really personal, and it can be hard to remain objective. Through those times, it was the CASA volunteers and the team at TLC CASA that helped us zoom out and see the bigger picture of the child’s story. 

Our involvement with TLC CASA deepened after we saw the invaluable support they provided during our fostering experiences. Robin became a CASA advocate first, followed by me. Eventually, I served on the board of TLC CASA, a role I cherished despite the challenges of balancing it with my pastoral duties, especially during the pandemic. 

CASA’s mission resonates deeply with us. They understand that fostering isn’t just about providing a home; it’s about creating meaningful experiences and memories for the children. Whether it’s taking a child to their first parade or giving them their first donut, these moments matter. CASA volunteers ensure that each child’s voice is heard and their needs are met, embodying the heart and soul of fostering.  

Everyone I’ve met in these roles has a deeply personal reason for being there. For us, it was a child in our community—someone who wanted dance lessons—who also needed a home. This personal connection fuels our commitment. 

What I’d say to people interested in becoming foster parents or a CASA volunteer is to be ready for the long haul. When we first got involved, we wanted to jump in headfirst. We saw Susie’s situation and thought, “Just give her to us; what do we need to do?” But it’s a process, and it takes time. The same goes for becoming a CASA volunteer. You have to go through the application process, background checks, and then training, which can be frustrating, but it’s important. I wrote off this advice initially, but I’d tell others now to embrace the slow pace. It might frustrate you, but it’s necessary.  

I’d also advise easing into the role of foster parent or CASA volunteer. Don’t say yes to everything right away. The system is broken and always needs more volunteers, but it’s better to take on a manageable amount and do it well. There are children at stake, and it’s crucial to be effective and sustainable in your efforts. 

Our journey has been filled with highs and lows. There was a particularly tough case where the children we cared for were removed from our home. It was heartbreaking and made us question everything, but it’s part of the reality of foster care. Despite the challenges, supporting them while we did was incredibly fulfilling.  

I can’t overstate the support we received from TLC CASA, particularly from individuals like Sherri and Marie. They stood by us during the darkest times, and I’m incredibly grateful. Their support has been crucial. Being a part of this network is also being a part of a community. 

Interested in becoming a CASA volunteer? Click here to fill out an interest form.