After losing her mother at a young age, Bonnie Berman has always lived life in the present. “Whatever I am doing with my time, I want it to be meaningful. I believe that being present and making the most of every moment is extremely important.” In 2015, when Bonnie was going back to work, she looked for a position that would make a difference in the world.
“When I was going back to work, I knew I wanted to do something that I felt good doing and that made an impact. At the end of the day, I just like knowing that I supported an organization that is doing good in the world. Yolo County CASA met all of these requirements and everyday I feel like I am contributing to positive change.”
Bonnie is Yolo County CASA’s administrative assistant and she manages an array of tasks for the organization. She communicates with all donors, manages invoices, time cards, and more. She also manages all background checks for CASA volunteers. In addition to these professional tasks, Bonnie also felt a personal calling to become a CASA volunteer. “You can’t work here and not feel a calling and responsibility to become a CASA volunteer. You just hear these incredible, transformational stories from CASAs and it moves you deeply.”
Bonnie’s first case just ended after 1.5 years and she remains in touch with her CASA child, who is now seven. “When our case ended a few months ago, I made him a book of photos and memories and left him my contact information. I told him that he can contact me whenever he wants, and to ease the transition, we still see each other once every couple of weeks.”
When asked about special memories, Bonnie talked about her experiences outside with her CASA child. “We both love being outside. I am a master gardener and my CASA youth hasn’t seen a tree he didn’t want to climb. I remember on one of our walks to the arboretum, we were both smiling, me on the ground, him in a tree, and looking around at all the scenery and each other. It was a neat visit and we really connected over a common passion.”
To anyone thinking of becoming a CASA volunteer, Bonnie says to give it a try. “It might be the biggest impact you make.”
