Volunteer Advocate Spotlight: Stu Watson

We are excited to highlight the advocacy of volunteer Stu Watson. Last spring, Stu and wife Kathy took the advocate training together and were officially sworn in as Court Appointed Special Advocates in June of 2024. Their journey into the world of advocacy began with a deep concern for children in troubled circumstances. Having lived and worked in the Gorge for 24 years after moving to Hood River in 2000, they felt a growing desire to contribute to the well-being of children caught in difficult family situations.

For Stu, his passion for helping children in need started long before he became a CASA volunteer. He had volunteered as a Lunch Buddy with the Rotary Club many years ago, an experience that opened his eyes to the struggles faced by broken families and the children born into them. His volunteer work extended beyond that, including time with the Ashland School District and the Columbia Gorge Community College Board, further fueling his dedication to supporting those in the community.

Stu shared that CASA training is just a “peek under the rug,” where the real education happens. Serving as a CASA volunteer offers a unique, behind-the-scenes view into the intricate world of public intervention and oversight for children involved in the child welfare system. It’s not just about the paperwork and the official roles — it’s about the time spent getting to know the kids.

“Getting to know the kids outside the official overlay provides a great opportunity to give time and attention from your heart, to meet the kids around what matters most to them," expressed Stu. "From that time together, unbidden insight into their hearts and minds — to what is in their best interest — will rise to the surface and inform your advocacy.”

For Stu, the most rewarding part of his CASA journey has been getting to know the five marvelous kids he and his wife work with. He’s been amazed by their resilience and strength, especially given the hardships they’ve faced.

"Despite being a newer CASA, Stu and his wife, Kathy, recently received commendations from the judge and the children's attorney on their first CASA report," shared Program Coordinator Leah Campbell. "The report was thorough, included pertinent details, and painted an excellent picture of the children's lives."

Stu’s experience as a CASA volunteer has left him with a strong belief in the power of this work. He encourages anyone considering becoming an advocate to take the plunge. While the work can be demanding, and the bureaucracy can often be frustrating, Stu emphasizes the positive impact you can make. “Though it can be a lot of work and the bureaucracy can be infuriating, the professionals in the system are mostly wonderful, caring people,” he says. “As a CASA working with them, you can help ensure the children have a positive outcome.”

For Stu, the question is simple: “How can you not like the chance to make a significant difference in someone's life?”

LEARN ABOUT HOW YOU CAN BECCOME A VOLUNTEER ADVOCATE!