Hearts of Yolo: Stories

Dr. Alan Tan

Dr. Alan Tan of Tan Orthodontics specializes in smiles—both for his patients and for foster children in Yolo County. Dr. Tan first heard of Yolo County CASA when Vicki Murphy introduced him to the organization. “Vicki was a good friend of my treatment coordinator and thought I would be a good fit for the board of directors. When I learned the mission of the organization, it was an easy ‘yes.’ ”

Janell Quesada

Written Profile

Janell Quesada has always known about Yolo County CASA. As her own children got older, she had more time to commit to being a volunteer. “I wanted to be a part of Yolo County CASA ten years ago when I first heard about it but I had a lot of commitments with my young children and work. About a year ago, I was at a time in my life where it just felt right.”

Joyce Henning

Written Profile

A cold Iowa winter three years ago was responsible for moving Joyce Henning to Yolo County. “I was on the phone with myniece and she told me it was 68 degrees at her farm in Esparto. With the wind chill, it was 30 degrees below zero in Iowa. I made up my mind then and there that I was going to head west.”

Susan Cassady

Written Profile

Susan Cassady started her career as a teacher, then became a school principal, and finished her career as director of alternative programs in Yolo County before she retired. As director of alternative schools, Susan worked with a couple of CASAs.

Bob Garcia

Written Profile

Bob Garcia heard about Yolo County CASA through a friend. As a retired elementary school teacher and principal, Bob knows all too well how much foster children need support. “When a child is suddenly moved out of the home, we see the effects in every aspect of their lives. As a teacher and principal, I witnessed first-hand what happens to a child’s mood, school performance, and overall well-being when that child is in crisis. I was moved to make a difference through Yolo County CASA.”

Leilani Duvauchelle

Written Profile

Leilani Duvauchelle is a passionate volunteer. On the side of her full-time job in the student accounting department at UC Davis, she volunteers for Empower Yolo, a local shelter for women and children in danger and crises. She also teaches English as a Second Language (ESL) classes.