By Laura Warne
Communications Coordinator
Infinite had the brains. He also, from a very young age, had an enviable work ethic. What he lacked was support, guidance, and consistency. Or as Infinite summarizes what his CASA Rich has done for him: “[He] was always looking out, checking in. Making sure my head’s on straight.”
It was a long road, but this past May 2020, Infinite turned 21 and officially aged out of foster care after 8.5 years in the system. CASA volunteer Rich Rolek has been by his side, keeping Infinite’s “head on straight” and advocating for his needs in court for seven of those years.
The very beginning of his time in foster care, before even Rich entered the picture, was the hardest for Infinite. Everyone was a complete stranger, and all he could think about was how much he wanted to be at home, with his family.
“Seeing a lot of faces who aren't family and feeling empty, that's the hardest part,” Infinite said. Over time, Infinite got to know his caseworkers, attorneys, and Rich. “There’s a lot of bad stereotypes about the system, but these people did help,” Infinite said.
“When I was at a low point, (Rich) helped bring me back up,” Infinite shared.
The pair have a mutual respect for each other, with Infinite recognizing Rich’s impact, and Rich emphasizing Infinite’s intellect and drive. “Infinite is a strong and intelligent young man with a good heart and a commitment to making his life successful,” Rich said.
Today, Infinite works two jobs: as a farmer at a local nonprofit and also as a manager at a restaurant. He has a stable home, and has lived with his friend and the friend’s family for four years now.
Next up: college to become a music engineer.
Wherever life takes him, Infinite knows who will be right by his side, even though his official time with CASA and the foster care system has ended. “I’m not going anywhere,” Rich said. “I’ll help him out. He’ll be great at anything he does.”