casa to marine: sarahann's story

BY JERÉ ANTHONY

Have you ever finished something that was harder than anything you’ve ever done in your life? Maybe you ran a marathon, graduated from college, or raised a child alone… you fill in the blank. We all have stuff that we are trying to accomplish, people we aspire to be like, and experiences we want to live out in life. All it takes is the courage to try, one intentional decision to put yourself out there and you may be surprised by what you were able to accomplish. We get to choose who we are in this life and we can be the heroes in our own stories.

I am always inspired when I hear stories about people who are living out their dreams. It is so easy to let go of dreams and goals because we will have to sacrifice something in order to attain it. I have recently realized that whatever it is that you are called to do, be it your destiny or your purpose, it isn’t supposed to be easy. In fact, many times it is the harder thing, the higher road. This realization was profound and changed my entire view on life.

Sarahann Temple, CASA volunteer for the 5th JDC, recently made a decision to make her dream a reality by enrolling in the United States Marine Corps. Sarahann served as a dedicated CASA for almost 2 years and has played a vital role in her CASA children’s wellbeing. Whether she was digging around for more information to help the Judge or just being supportive to all parties involved, her role is one that has been essential in paving the path to permanency for her CASA children. During her time as a CASA, Sarahann was able to aid in removing the children from an unsafe foster home and follow them in their transition to a safe placement.

On October 20,  Sarahann stood up for her CASA children in court and spoke up for their best interest,  just 3 days before leaving to become a United States Marine. We are so happy to report that Sarahann has graduated from boot camp and is living out her dream. Friends and family members alike are all so proud of her hard work and dedication in finishing what she set out to do. As an agency, we couldn’t be happier to have had someone like Sarahann as a representative.
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This is just one example of the extraordinary character that it takes to be a volunteer. I am so proud to work for an agency that empowers everyday citizens to be heroes in the lives of children. The reality is that everyone that is involved in our program has success stories, everyone is already doing more than the average citizen by choosing to give their extra time to help someone other than themselves. My hope is that by reading this, you will feel spiritually fed and encouraged to test the waters in your own life. Everyone deserves to feel the triumph of accomplishing their dreams. We are capable of so much. Stop waiting for something easy to happen to you, instead lean into the uncomfortable situations and explore what is on the other side. When you reach your goal, we will be here to celebrate along side you.