We invite you to meet Michelle Klein. An Advocate since December 2025, Michelle is serving three children in two child welfare cases.

Advocacy Specialist Vanessa Temporetti said that Michelle is always attentive to the needs of her cases.

“Michelle shows up with a smile and positive attitude, even during the most stressful moments,” Vanessa said. “I nominated her because, despite one of her current cases being difficult and presenting many challenges, she is consistently willing to help with professionalism and dedication.”

We asked Michelle to share about her experiences as an Advocate. 

Tell us about your background.

I have always enjoyed working with children. When my daughters were young, I was a Sunday School teacher/director and youth group leader at our church, totaling almost 15 years in youth ministry. This kept me active in my children’s lives and got us to church one to two times a week for many years, which was very important to me. I loved getting to know and working with all the children of various ages and backgrounds.

What sparked your interest in volunteering as an Advocate?

As a single empty-nester, I was getting very bored. After so many years of “go, go, go,” I wasn’t sure how to fill my time with activities that would fulfill me and keep me busy. My hobbies and crafts are fun, but I continued to need something more. I prayed about it often, and one day I googled “volunteer organizations near me” and court-appointed special advocate (CASA) was one of the opportunities listed. I researched Child Advocates and knew immediately that this is what I wanted to do. I am so thankful that God led me to this organization!

Did you have any reservations about volunteering as an Advocate? If so, what helped you move past them?

There was no hesitation whatsoever about volunteering once I researched Child Advocates and the role of the Advocate. I did have some reservations about my very first face-to-face visit, but after the initial training, I felt more prepared and was at ease when I first met the children and caregiver. Child Advocates definitely offers plenty of training and workshops to help you overcome any fears or hesitations you may have. Additionally, speaking with staff and other volunteers lends a wealth of knowledge for any questions or concerns you may have.

In your own words, how would you describe the role of an Advocate, and why is this work so important for a child in care?

As an Advocate, you are the one gathering information and amplifying the voice of the child(ren). You use all of your resources and opportunities to investigate and report what is going on in the child’s life so that it can be determined what is best for the child in their situation. You show up for the child. You listen to the child and their caregivers and family.

What has surprised you most about your experience as an Advocate?

Everyone at Child Advocates treats you like family (in a good way!) from the moment you begin the process of becoming an Advocate. From meeting with Shellie* to express your interest, to the pre-service training with Julie*, to the meetings, court appearances, phone calls, and emails with your Advocacy Specialist, the staff and volunteers are absolutely amazing at taking you in as one of their own. Even at the Child Advocates events and further training, everyone is so kind and like a big family.

*Shellie Tyrrell is the Lead Outreach Specialist for Child Advocates and meets with all potential volunteers to share about the organization and child advocacy. Julie Brown, Training & TBRI® Community Education Specialist, leads the pre-service training that all volunteers must complete to become an Advocate. 

What has been the most challenging and rewarding part of advocacy work?

The most rewarding part of advocacy that I have experienced thus far has been watching the children thrive once they are placed in a healthy and consistent environment. Seeing them permanently placed in this type of environment has been the greatest reward.

The most challenging part of advocacy has been the rescheduling of court dates. As I still work full-time, anything I do during business hours takes me away from my job. My employer is very supportive of my role as an Advocate, but it can be challenging when my cases have court dates the same week or when you attend court for a hearing only to find out that it will be rescheduled to the next week for one reason or another.

What do you wish the community better understood about children in crisis?

It would benefit so many people if they learned and incorporated the TBRI® principles, asking “why” is this happening when a child acts out. Many of the children that are deemed “bad” kids are just kids in bad situations.

Through volunteering, what have you learned about children and families in crisis?

Children and families in crisis do not always look like what you expect them to. Some of these families might look just like your family.

Anything else you want to share about Child Advocates?

This organization and the work we do have truly exceeded my expectations. Everything is handled professionally and operates like a well-oiled machine. The staff and volunteers are friendly and informative, and the services provided to children and families can be life-changing. For anyone considering becoming an Advocate, please do it! You will not regret your decision.