Court Appointed Special Advocate: Fresno and Madera The Voice That Empowers Foster Youth Hosted By: Diane O'Canto Mission: CASA of Fresno and Madera Counties trains volunteers as Court Appointed Special Advocates to be a guiding voice empowering vulnerable children and youth in foster care to reach their full potential in life. The World Needs More Heroes Welcome to the CASA F.A.M Podcast, where you will hear in-depth stories of Heroes of Hope, Foster Youth, and how we can create change. Tun ...
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Casa Fresno And Madera Podcasts
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Episode 25: The Power of People: Transforming Volunteerism with Betsy McFarland
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In this episode of the CASA Fam Podcast, we sit down with volunteer engagement strategist Betsy McFarland, a seasoned leader and problem-solver who has spent her career building sustainable, people-powered solutions for social impact organizations. Betsy shares how her background in animal welfare and national volunteer initiatives shaped her curre…
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Episode 24: A Legacy of Empowerment: Wilma Tom Hashimoto’s CASA Farewell
16:21
16:21
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In this heartfelt farewell episode, Wilma Tom Hashimoto looks back on her 15 impactful years with CASA of Fresno and Madera Counties – 8 years as a dedicated board member and 7 as Executive Director. Wilma shares her journey, leadership lessons, and the powerful moments that shaped her time at CASA, while offering a glimpse into the future she envi…
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Episode 23: Beyond the System: Guiding Foster Youth to Independence with Lorin Dias
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Aging out of foster care is a life-altering transition, and without the right support, many young adults face overwhelming challenges. In this episode, we sit down with Lorin Dias, CASA’s City Center Program Coordinator, to explore how CASA and City Center are working together to break cycles, provide essential resources, and guide system-impacted …
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Episode 22: From Newsroom to Center Stage: Fabiola Ramirez on Storytelling, Community, and CASA’s Chef Cook-Off
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17:21
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🎧 Welcome to the CASA F.A.M. Podcast! ✨ In this episode, we’re joined by Fabiola Ramirez, a dynamic storyteller, social media expert, and community advocate who has made a lasting impact in Fresno. From reporting the news to shaping the city's digital presence, Fabiola shares the inspiring journey that led her from the newsroom to leadership roles …
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Episode 21: Navigating the Holidays with CASA Advocate Wendy: Tips, Stories, and Support for Foster Youth
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29:49
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In this heartfelt episode of the CASA Fam Podcast, we sit down with Wendy Yribarren, a dedicated CASA advocate, as she shares her powerful story and experience working with foster youth. Wendy opens up about the challenges foster children face during the holiday season and offers valuable insights on how we can help them feel supported, loved, and …
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Episode 20: Brotherhood on Wheels: Supporting Foster Youth with Smoke & Iron MC
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In this special CASA FAM episode, we sit down with Jason, a member of the Smoke & Iron Motorcycle Club (SIFFMC), and Mike, the national president of the club. SIFFMC is a unique brotherhood of firefighters who share a passion for riding motorcycles and giving back to their communities. They’re here to talk about their collaboration with CASA and Wi…
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Episode 19: Building Community & Celebrating Culture: A Real Estate Journey with Noe Cruz
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Welcome to the CASA FAM Podcast! Join us as we dive into the dynamic world of real estate with our special guest, Noe Cruz from All State Homes Real Estate. Not only is Noe a seasoned expert in the real estate market, but he's also deeply connected to the heart of our community. In this episode, we explore his journey in real estate, valuable insig…
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Episode 18: Empowering Communities: The FISH Initiative and Its Impact with Shail Lopez-Ortiz and Annu Bezwada
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In today’s episode, we’re joined by two incredible guests, Shail Lopez-Ortiz and Annu Bezwada, who are both passionate about community service and leadership. Shail Lopez-Ortiz, the Director of the Wayfinders Program at Fresno State, brings 18 years of experience managing non-profits. Shail is also one of the founding members of FISH, a non-profit …
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Episode 17: Building Communities and Futures: A Conversation with Mike Miller, Lennar Division President
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Welcome to the CASA F.A.M. Podcast! Today, we’re thrilled to host Mike Miller, Division President of Lennar Homes. Since 1954, Lennar has built over a million homes across America, creating diverse communities while also giving back through various initiatives. We're excited to explore Lennar’s community impact, sustainability efforts, and their cu…
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Episode 16: Shaping Futures: Bob Nelson’s Impact on Education and Support for Foster Youth
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34:24
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Welcome to today’s episode! We’re thrilled to have Bob Nelson with us. Bob is the Superintendent of Fresno Unified, California’s third-largest school district, serving over 72,000 students. With a rich career spanning roles from Teacher to Chief of Staff, Bob’s impact on education is profound. Before his current role, he was the Superintendent of C…
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Episode 15: Empowering Communities: A Conversation with Jené D’Ambrosio
34:03
34:03
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Join us on the CASA F.A.M. Podcast as we dive into an inspiring conversation with Jené D’Ambrosio, a Fresno native, dedicated leader, and passionate philanthropist. Jené is the President and co-owner of D’Ambrosio Trading Inc., a textile recycling company, and the founder of Full Circle Thrift Inc., a nonprofit supporting disaster relief and domest…
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Episode 14: Finding Happiness After Foster Care: A Journey of Resilience with Catrina Owens
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In this episode of the CASA F.A.M. Podcast, we delve into the inspiring story of Catrina Owens, a remarkable woman who has overcome immense challenges to find happiness and purpose after her experiences in the foster care system. Join us as Catrina shares her journey of resilience, from facing abuse and instability to becoming a devoted parent and …
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Episode 13: Building Hope: A Conversation with the Founder of Granville Home of Hope; Darius Assemi
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Welcome to the CASA FAM podcast, where we dive into conversations with influential leaders making a difference in our community. In this episode, we're honored to sit down with Darius Assemi, CEO of Granville Homes and founder of the Granville Home of Hope foundation. Join us as we explore the origins of the Granville Home of Hope and the passion t…
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Episode 12: Voices of Impact: Stories from Working with Foster Youth FT. Francisco Pelayo
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34:56
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In this episode, we delve into the experiences and insights of individuals who have dedicated their careers to supporting foster youth. Our guest shares their personal journey and what inspired them to work with foster youth, shedding light on the challenges and triumphs they've encountered along the way. From impactful stories that highlight the r…
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Episode 11: Thriving Beyond Adversity, Tasty Takes with Chef Robert Ortiz
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Welcome back to the CASA F.A.M. Podcast! Today we have Chef Robert Ortiz, with 15 years of culinary experience, Roberts's enthusiasm for the culinary arts, and genuine love for creating exceptional dining experiences are inspiring. He is dedicated to delivering high-quality dishes, exploring new flavors, and continually refining his skills. In toda…
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Episode 10: Meeting People Where They Are, Not Where You Want Them To Be Ft. Advocate Mitch Shaw
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27:26
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Welcome back to the CASA F.A.M. Podcast. Today we have Mitch Shaw, Court Appointed Special Advocate, Real Estate Agent, and Mental Health Advocate, he serves on various committees and boards that serve the underserved people of our community. In today's episode, Mitch highlights what it truly means to be an advocate. Often, we as humans enter a sit…
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Episode 9: Providing Hope and Healing for Victims of Human Trafficking Ft. Debra Rush
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38:37
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38:37
“Do the best you can until you know better. Then, when you know better, do better.” Welcome back to the CASA F.A.M. Podcast today we have Debra Rush, Co-Founder / Chief Executive Officer of Breaking the Chains, Breaking the Chains provides long-term residential and non-residential trauma treatment to victims of human trafficking. She is also an alc…
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Episode 8: Identity, Belonging and Purpose With Julie McGue
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In Today’s episode we have special guest Julie McGue, she is an author, a domestic adoptee, and an identical twin. She writes extensively about finding out who you are, where you belong, and making sense of it. We Dive deep into the concept of identity, shame, and rejection. Discussing how we are constantly searching for answers to the uncertaintie…
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Episode 7: Creating Wholeness, Taking 5 and Managing Mental Wellness In the Workplace With Wellness Coach Maria Mayes
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49:32
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Today we have a very special guest, Founder, Meditation & Wellness Coach at Take 5, LLC, Holistic Health & Workplace Wellbeing Mentor and Mindful Wine Tasting Guide; Maria Mayes. She is a certified health/wellness coach, mentor, and meditation teacher with a track record of creating positive transformations in the lives of executive-level leaders a…
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Episode 6: “Why Being Trauma Informed Changes Everything” Ft. Program Supervisors Angi Martinez and Carmina Guerrero Ramos
31:09
31:09
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According to the American Psychological Association "Trauma is an emotional response to a terrible event. Immediately after the event, shock, and denial are typical. Longer term reactions include unpredictable emotions, flashbacks, strained relationships, and even physical symptoms like headaches or nausea." In today's episode, we discuss the impor…
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Episode 5: Everything Happens For a Reason Ft. Board Member Ben Torchia & Kara Torchia
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18:41
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Sometimes life will test you, but remember this: When you walk up a mountain, your legs get stronger! In today’s episode, CASA Board Member, Ben Torchia, and his wife, Kara Torchia, discuss their transition from being the parents of three to six children. The Torchia’s felt a call to give back to something greater than themselves, which led them to…
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Episode 4: Life Before and After a CASA Ft. Former Foster Youth Isabell and Daniel
35:13
35:13
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In today’s episode, Diane interviews former foster youth Isabell and Daniel, a sibling set who was placed with a CASA Advocate during their time in foster care. They share their stories of how they navigated life, expressing their emotions about what situations looked like before and after their Advocate entered their world. The eldest sibling of 5…
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Episode 3: The Journey to Becoming a Hero of Hope Ft. Advocate Maryam Cooke
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30:48
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In today's episode, Diane interviews a Hero of Hope, Maryam Cooke. She has been an Advocate since 2020 and Cooke discusses her journey of what it means to be the voice that matters to her foster youth. She shares the steps it took in her decision to become a CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocate). While expressing stories of growth, not only for h…
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Episode 2: Why Patience and Consistency are Key Tools to Becoming an Advocate
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13:58
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We as humans already have a hard time developing trust, imagine if you were neglected and abused. Due to the constant revolving door of people, foster youth have a hard time developing trust with people, especially new faces. Diane ( Marketing and Outreach Coordinator) and Angi (Advocate Supervisor) talk about why patience and consistency are key t…
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Episode 1: The Voice That Matters For Our Foster Youth
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Welcome to the first episode of the CASA F.A.M. Podcast. We touch on the topic of CASA, what we do, and how to help. The ladies introduce how an advocate truly is a Hero of Hope. So many children in the Foster Care system need someone consistent in their lives, to tell them not to give up. Sharing one of the many stories that have touched our heart…
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