Congratulations to Donna Bulliard for being selected as Louisiana’s CASA Volunteer of the Month!
Donna is a wife of 41 years, a mom to 4 children and grandmother to 6 with grandchild number 7 on the way. In her earlier years, she was a practicing CPA and is a current volunteer with CASA of SOLA. She has always loved interacting with kids, whether at the ballpark, tutoring, babysitting or in Sunday school. Donna says through CASA, she has also found that she has a soft spot for the moms and wants them to succeed. "I am retired and am in a season where I can give the time and hope to these children." says Donna.
When asked why she chose to become a volunteer, she said " I volunteered in hopes that I could make a difference in a child's life by being a consistent, dependable, caring, encouraging, listening person offering unconditional love with discernment." She added that prior to volunteering, she had cared for a child when a mom was unable to care for them and realized how important it is for a child to be well loved and taken care of. When she heard about CASA, she knew it was a great fit for her.
"The ultimate goal is for the child to be able to go through this difficult time and come through it in the healthiest way possible. So, we, with the courts and social services, are working with the parents and children to enable them to become a well-functioning family unit. When this occurs, it has definite, positive results for our community." says Donna.
As for advice for other CASA volunteers, Donna says "In every case there are many ups and downs, so work hard to make sure your CASA children are encouraged, feel loved and supported and that that they receive all the services needed." She added "we cannot change behavior, circumstances or predict the future but we can we can be that extra set of eyes and be there for that child. So, when the case is finalized, know that you have done everything that you can do for that child."
The mission of Louisiana CASA is to provide a well-trained CASA volunteer to advocate for every child in the judicial system due to abuse or neglect. Our mission would not be possible without the help of people like you.
On behalf of the children we serve, thank you Donna for your commitment and service.
About CASA of SOLA
CASA of SOLA serve children in Acadia, Lafayette, and Vermilion Parishes and are based in Lafayette, LA. You can stop by at 227 La Rue France Lafayette LA, 70508 or give them a call at 337-268-5111.
Learn more about our local programs here.