February 2025

We invite you to meet Kimberly Marvel, nominated by Lead Justice-Involved Youth Advocacy Specialist Mike Quinn and Advocacy Specialist Linda Fiato. Kimberly joined Child Advocates as a volunteer in 2017, and she has served on four child welfare cases.

“Kimberly consistently goes above and beyond for the children she serves on every case,” Mike said. “Thanks to her attention to detail and compassion, she ensures their best interests are being met every step of the way.”

We asked Kimberly to share her experiences as an Advocate for children in our community.

Is there anything unique about your background that contributes to your approach to advocacy?

I’m a former elementary school teacher and spent most of those years in under-resourced schools. I found great fulfillment and purpose in striving to ensure each child’s highest learning potential as well as encouraging their maximum social and emotional development. These goals included taking into consideration each student’s educational and developmental backgrounds and assessing their individual needs. Teachers are mandated reporters; therefore, I was also exposed to multiple CPS cases, legal depositions, and giving testimony in court. My time as an educator helped equip me for my role as an Advocate.

How did you become interested in volunteering as an Advocate?

My husband and I have been both substitute caregivers for children in foster care and foster parents. I learned about Child Advocates and its critical significance when our child in care was not appointed a guardian ad litem. I believe the absence of an Advocate was pivotal. Although that season of our lives stretched our heartstrings to their limits, I would not trade it. It helped cement my appreciation for the imperative role of a Child Advocate, and it gave me a unique understanding and personal perspective toward all parties involved in each case.

Did you have any reservations about volunteering?

I was thankful to have the opportunity to serve as an Advocate. The initial learning curve can be overwhelming at first. My Advocacy Specialist, the Child Advocates staff, CPS staff, and my fellow volunteers have been so supportive and helpful with any questions that arise.

Explain in your own words the work you do as a volunteer Advocate. Why is it essential for a child?

I have the privilege and responsibility to help guide children through the entire process when they come into care. It is imperative that I am conscious of the evolving details of their physical, emotional, educational, medical, and social needs and well-being. My desire is to build a trusting, honest relationship with the children, parents, and caregivers in order to advocate for the most positive outcome and what is in the best interest of the child.

What has surprised you the most about advocacy?

I’ve been most surprised by the resilience and courage of the children in my cases. I’ve advocated for infants to teens, and all ages never cease to amaze me. I have witnessed brave adaptations to very difficult experiences, beautiful positive attachments to safe and stable caregivers, forgiveness, inspiring perseverance, and miraculous growth and healing.

What would you like the community to know about children in foster care? What have you learned through your advocacy?

There are layers upon layers of complexity and dysfunction in every child’s story. I have learned to listen, observe, and be open. I purpose to approach every individual involved with care and discernment and without bias. The ups and downs and unexpected changes in a case are often a challenge to process and navigate. A volunteer must be prepared and composed for all involved when these twists and turns occur. As a guardian ad litem, I have great respect for the collaboration that is necessary between CPS, the attorneys, the judge, and other resources to walk toward an outcome that is best for the children.

Is there a particular moment or memory that stands out for you?

It is a humbling honor to be a small part in the stories of brave children who are walking through hardship, trauma, abuse, and uncertainty and to be a witness to and support in their journey. It is rewarding to have maintained contact with many children who are now on the other side of their case and are flourishing.

Anything else you want to share about Child Advocates?

Serving as an Advocate has enriched and challenged me in invaluable ways. Being a volunteer is such a worthy endeavor and a rewarding way to serve the community.