Glynda's journey as a CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocate) volunteer as a CASA is a testament to her unwavering dedication and compassion. Currently, Glynda is a faithful office helper for Goochland/Powhatan CASA. Before moving to Goochland, she served as an advocate for children in Northern Virginia, ensuring children's voices were heard in court. She did this for 11 years until her eyesight worsened, making it difficult for her to read street signs and visit homes. Fortunately, Glynda didn't let this stop her. Instead, she transitioned to helping CASA in a different capacity through administrative work, continuing to support the cause she believes in so deeply.
Before her retirement, Glynda had a fulfilling career as a speech pathologist for 30 years, working in both a community clinic and a state institution. After retiring, she took on a new role as a receptionist for nine years, showcasing her adaptability and willingness to stay active and engaged.
During her time as a CASA volunteer, Glynda assisted four families, each with one child. Her background as a speech pathologist meant she often worked with very young children, ranging from two months to three years old, as her professional commitments prevented her from attending school meetings. Despite these challenges, Glynda formed deep connections with the children and their families. One of her favorite memories is visiting her CASA child at daycare every week, where the child and other children would run to greet her with joy.
Glynda also recalls forming a strong bond with a mother who was incarcerated in Goochland. This bond was built on trust and communication, allowing the mother to share her hopes and dreams with Glynda. Another significant moment in Glynda's CASA experience was helping the birth father of a three-year-old CASA child. Initially hostile to the court process, the father was in jail for the first two years of his child's life and struggled with the idea of losing custody. Through persistent and compassionate communication, Glynda earned his trust, enabling her to help others understand him and vice versa.
Outside of her CASA work, Glynda has a variety of interests and hobbies. She is a NASCAR enthusiast and has attended many races, with her husband kindly driving her despite his own lack of interest in the sport. Additionally, Glynda was a hospice volunteer for 12 years in Lynchburg, further demonstrating her commitment to helping others.
In her spare time, Glynda enjoys organizing and decluttering. She finds great satisfaction in this activity, although she has run out of things to get rid of (or that she's allowed to get rid of!). Her passion for order and tidiness reflects her meticulous and caring nature.
For anyone considering becoming a CASA volunteer, Glynda offers valuable advice: it is crucial to be non-judgmental and to understand that, however hopeless a case may seem, people are usually doing the best they can. Her experience and wisdom highlight the profound impact that a dedicated CASA volunteer can have on the lives of children and families in need.
Glynda’s contributions as a CASA advocate and CASA office volunteer have made a lasting difference in the lives of many, and her legacy of service continues to inspire others.