By Juliana Oelkers
Fresh out of college in 2017, Gabi Montalvo did not have much volunteer experience. That year, she was primarily focused on working full time and attending open houses for grad school.
Luckily for both CASA and Gabi, it was during one of those open houses that she learned about volunteering at Passaic County CASA. Three years later, and Gabi is now February’s CASA Volunteer of the Month.
With a degree in psychology, Gabi was always interested in child welfare. After attending a CASA volunteer information session, she realized being a CASA would allow her to take on a role within that field and advocate on behalf of children in the child welfare system.
Ever since becoming a volunteer in 2018, Gabi has advocated for four children of all different ages and backgrounds.
“You’re never really prepared for what you might read in a case file,” Gabi said.
But what makes it all worth it to her is seeing the progress that the kids make over time.
Her first case involved a toddler who wore a helmet due to developmental problems. Gabi visited him a few times every month and with each visit, she witnessed slow but steady improvements in his health.
“One of the most memorable experiences as a CASA was finally seeing him with his helmet off for the first time,” Gabi said.
Making progress with her CASA kids did not always come so easily, though. The teenage girl from Gabi’s second case was closed off at first. One of the things that Gabi used to her advantage was her age. Gabi feels that being younger than the typical CASA volunteer made it easier for her to connect with the girl.
“I was looked at as sort of an equal and I think that’s what kind of helped with the teen. I can relate to Instagram and Snapchat and even help with homework,” Gabi said.
When that case closed and Gabi’s teen was reunified with her mom, the most rewarding part for Gabi was seeing that they were both working hard to be able to maintain their relationship and how happy her CASA teen was.
“I love really seeing the progress that can happen when all parties work together because it benefits the kids at the end of the day.”
Now, Gabi has been assigned to her third case with two little girls living with their grandparents.
To her, the CASA role is so rewarding because talking with her kids, learning how they feel, and seeing what they need is the best part of the job.
“As CASAs...it's fulfilling to be able to tell that to the judge.”
Although she was inexperienced at the start, Gabi now views volunteering with CASA as a hugely meaningful part of her life.
When she’s not busy visiting her CASA children or working, Gabi loves to travel to Mexico, the Dominican Republic, and California. She also enjoys trying out new restaurants in her neighborhood, or having a girls’ night with friends.