MAY 2025
The two CASA stories we shared this month feature how three individuals found their CASA connection. Continue reading to learn more about the positive impact these amazing Humans of CASA have on the community.
ANDREW RODNEY & BRANDY BONES, CASA VOLUNTEER AND CASA DONORS
“The kids couldn’t speak for themselves, neither they or us, foster parents even have the right to give input in court unless called on and we also have no right to investigate details of the case. Learning how CASAs help address all these issues, we were inspired to get involved.”
As new foster parents, CASA’s mission resonated in Andrew and Brandy’s hearts after attending a Wayne County CASA event in 2022. Through their experiences as foster parents, Andrew and Brandy saw the vital need for the advocacy and support of CASA volunteers in the lives of children in foster care. They turned their frustrations with the shortcomings of the system into action and got involved.
“We started to donate then, attended more events, met more amazing CASAs, donated more and I [Andrew] started to volunteer in 2024.”
When asked about the impact of CASA in their life, Andrew shared his new perspective.
“It’s opened my eyes to the needs of foster children….there’s no comparison between reading about these things and actually being personally involved.”
Andrew and Brandy are avid world travelers but found home in Detroit. Mentorship has always had a place in their life in different forms. As foster parents they’re intimately familiar with the struggles, the pain, the love and the dedication that it takes for families in the welfare system to find their way back to each other or for a child to find the best possible home when reunification is not an option.
“With so many professionals involved—caseworkers, investigators, attorneys, therapists and judges—it’s easy for a child’s needs to get lost in the system. Those professionals are often juggling dozens of cases at a time. CASAs play a crucial role by focusing on just one case at a time, ensuring that each child has someone truly advocating for their best interests. I have seen how this personalized attention makes a life-changing difference in a child’s future.”
KENNETH COLEMAN, CASA BOARD MEMBER
“By addressing the needs of these vulnerable souls and lessening the number of traumatized and broken spirits, we can significantly decrease the likelihood of raising a generation of adults burdened by the scars of their past. In this way, we foster healing and a brighter, more hopeful future for all.”
Dr. Coleman is a licensed mental health professional with more than 30 years of experience in public health. His early formative years of education took place in the Detroit Public Schools on the east side of Detroit.
“One of my core professional passions is promoting children’s well-being. I have devoted myself to various initiatives to support children and adolescents throughout my career.”
As a mental health professional, Dr. Coleman recognizes the profound journey every child embarks on as they transition into adulthood and how CASA’s advocacy work is vital to the safeguarding of children’s futures. His CASA connection happened through a colleague who saw how Dr. Coleman’s passion for helping teens aligned with the mission of Wayne County CASA.
“Being a member of the Board of Wayne County CASA allows me to actively contribute to the flourishing of future generations, championing their welfare and nurturing a brighter tomorrow.”
Dr. Coleman credits his personal development and the formation of his values to his surroundings and the significant impact of inspiring individuals who became his role models.
“I was raised amidst a vibrant tapestry of adult influences, where each interaction painted vivid strokes on the canvas of my childhood. The voices of wise mentors, animated storytellers, and nurturing figures filled my days with lessons and laughter, shaping my understanding of the world.”
