Volunteer Spotlight: Pam Rozelsky

This month, we are proud to recognize a special volunteer who became a CASA when the timing was right. A former educator and accountant, Pam Rozelsky felt a strong desire to make a difference in her community. Ever since she first learned about the CASA program, Pam knew it was something she wanted to be apart of. She officially joined the program in 2016 and has since served 8 children across 5 families, dedicating over 1800 hours to CASA.

Are you from the area?

No, I’m not. I’m originally from Pennsylvania. I grew up right outside of Philadelphia. I went to college in Pennsylvania and then married my husband who was serving in the Air Force—together we moved all over the place. We ended up in Northern Virginia at the end of his term about 20 years ago.

Virginia is a sweet spot—we’re not too far from Pennsylvania. I love it here a lot. We have two adult daughters who both chose to stay in the area. So as long as they’re here, we will be here.

Are you retired? What did you do prior to becoming a CASA?

I’ve been a CASA for eight years now and just recently retired. I worked most of the time while I was a CASA as an accountant and teacher. I’ve taught in preschool, high school and college and did a variety of different things throughout my career. I found that CASA work aligned closely with my professional experience. You wear two hats—one focused on paperwork and organization, and the other centered on having the emotional capacity to support the children you work with. My work experience has been so helpful in my role as a CASA.

How did you manage working as an accountant on top of being a CASA?

At the time I was part-time, and my employer was very understanding. She supported my work as a CASA and allowed me to prioritize it when needed. If you have the flexibility in your schedule, you can absolutely balance working and being a CASA.

When you’re not volunteering as a CASA, what do you enjoy doing?

My biggest hobby is reading. I’m an avid reader and have been attending the same book club for 20 years. I love both reading and discussing books. I also enjoy exercising, especially walking and hiking. Burke Lake is one of my favorite spots to walk.

Now that I’m retired, I’ve really come to enjoy traveling and try to do it often. My favorite part is meeting new people and experiencing different parts of the world. I also love planning trips too—sometimes I find it just as fun as the trip itself.

What brought you to CASA?

Many years ago, I was taking classes at the University of Virginia while also working as an accountant and teaching. My instructor for a behavioral management course, was also a CASA in Charlottesville. She often shared examples from her experience in class. That was how I was introduced to the program. I remember asking her about it and thinking it was the most amazing thing.

At the time, I knew I wouldn’t be able to do it—I had two young children. I was navigating my career, taking classes and motherhood. But the thought lingered and every now and then, the idea of becoming a CASA would pop into my head.

Then, in 2016, I participated in a walk to raise awareness for suicide prevention. During the walk, I ended up talking to someone. We spoke about being in the empty nester stage and wanting to do something different. Without hesitation, I said, “I’m going become a CASA.” That very night, I went online and filled out the information form.

If there is something you are drawn to, you can’t ignore it.

What has been your most memorable experience as a CASA?

A combination of things with my current CASA kid. She’s currently in the Fostering Futures program. I’ve been her CASA for exactly three years now. In our first year together, the goal was to get her to high school graduation—which was a huge deal. It was a difficult year for her, and she had a lot on her plate.

I attended her graduation, and after the ceremony, while everybody was searching for their kid, she called me saying, “Ms. Pam—I can’t find you!” I told her I’d stand on a rock so she could spot me. When she saw me, she came running towards me with her cap and gown. In that moment it all clicked—this is what it’s all about. She was so proud of herself for making it to graduation, and just being a part of that was really empowering and moving for me.

What is the best part of being a CASA?

The connections with the kids, the families and foster parents. Talking to everybody and getting a scope of the big picture is the best part because you get to figure out what’s best for the child.  It’s an important role and the work you do truly makes a difference in such difficult situations.

What is the most challenging part of being a CASA?

The most frustrating part is trying to get information from people who wouldn’t provide you with the stuff you need. Overtime, I’ve learned to be strategic, figuring out the best methods of communication and right times to reach out to the professionals involved in the case.

Early on I struggled with keeping my volunteer work separate from my personal life. It was hard to hear all these horrible things happen then return home to my regular routine. There would be plenty of times where I would sit in my car for a little while, and just take a moment to decompress. I’d write everything out or use voice recordings to process my thoughts, and try my best to let it go.

Lastly, what advice would you give to someone considering becoming a CASA?

There’s a lot of people that feel as if they don’t have the skills to be a CASA or might find the role intimidating. If you are called to something like this, then do it. Wanting to make a difference is half the battle. CASA has great training and supports you throughout the entire process. There is no other volunteer organization that has their volunteer’s back like CASA.

Thank you, Pam, for your commitment to the children we serve.

Feeling called to stand up and serve your community? Sign up to attend an upcoming virtual information session.