CASA F.A.M.

🎙 CASA Fam: Showing Up with Heart, featuring Johnathan In this inspiring episode of CASA Fam , we sit down with Johnathan, one of our dedicated CASA volunteers, to hear how he found his way to CASA and why he continues to show up with heart. From how he first heard about the organization to the moments that deepened his connection, Johnathan shares the impact of saying yes to service — even outsid...

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 current work—empowering CASA programs like ours to str...

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 envisions for the organization. Listen in as Wilma ref...

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 youth toward independence. Lorin shares their per...

🎧 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 in media and community outreach. She opens...

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 empowered. Tune in for tips on making the holidays...

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 Willow Tree Farms for the Rooted in Hope event....

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 insights on today’s market, and the unique ways A...

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 focused on collaborating with local organizations...

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 current match donation partnership with CASA. L...

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 Chawanakee Unified School District and served Fresn...

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 domestic violence survivors. In this episode, we explore...

 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 author. Her story highlights the crucial role of...

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 that sparked its establishment. Darius shares...

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 resilience of foster youth to strategies for b...

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 today's episode, we will discuss Roberts&apo...

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 situation wanting to come in and fix it immedia...

“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 alcohol and drug counselor, Certified Trauma Profess...

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 uncertainties we have as humans. However, patience and persis...

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 and diverse corporate workforces. With a s...

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 importance of trauma-informed mindsets...

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 adopt three of their children. They touch on the...

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 children, Isabell expresses how life gradually ch...

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 her youth but herself. Cooke gives us an insid...

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 tools to becoming an advocate. They share specific...