CASA F.A.M.

CASA Fresno and Madera

CASA F.A.M. PodcastReal Stories. Steady Voices. Lasting Impact. Be the Anchor in a Child's Storm. Hosted by Diane O'Canto | CASA of Fresno and Madera Counties Every child deserves someone they can count on. For children and youth navigating the foster care system, life can bring uncertainty, change, and challenges beyond their control. But even in the middle of life's storms, one consistent, caring adult can make a lasting difference. Welcome to the CASA F.A.M. Podcast, where meaningful conversations meet a mission that matters. Presented by CASA of Fresno and Madera Counties and hosted by Diane O'Canto, this podcast brings together the voices of Court Appointed Special Advocates, individuals with lived experience in foster care, community leaders, and changemakers who believe every child deserves to feel seen, heard, and supported. Through honest conversations, personal stories, and community connections, we explore the realities of foster care, the importance of advocacy, and the lasting impact of showing up for someone when they need it most. At CASA, our mission is to train and support volunteers who advocate for children and youth in foster care, helping ensure their voices are heard, their needs are recognized, and they have the opportunity to reach their full potential. Because being an anchor isn't about stopping the storm. It's about being someone a child can count on while they navigate through it. Whether you're an Advocate, a community supporter, or someone looking for a meaningful way to make a difference, there's a place for you in the CASA F.A.M. You don't have to change the whole world to change a child's world. Become Someone a Child Can Count On. Learn how you can become a Court Appointed Special Advocate and make a lasting difference in the life of a child or youth in foster care. Website: https://www.casafresnomadera.org/become-an-advocate/ Instagram: @casafresno_madera

  1. 04/01/2025

    Episode 23: Beyond the System: Guiding Foster Youth to Independence with Lorin Dias

    Aging out of foster care is a life-altering transition, and without the right support, many young adults face overwhelming challenges. In this episode, we sit down with Lorin Dias, CASA’s City Center Program Coordinator, to explore how CASA and City Center are working together to break cycles, provide essential resources, and guide system-impacted youth toward independence. Lorin shares their personal journey into this work, the harsh realities foster youth face when they turn 18, and the biggest misconceptions about life after foster care. We also dive into: ✨ The biggest struggles foster youth face when aging out of the system  ✨ How CASA and City Center work together to provide housing, job support, and essential resources  ✨ The emotional toll of this work and how Lorin stays motivated  ✨ Heartfelt success stories of foster youth overcoming obstacles  ✨ How the community can step up to better support system-impacted young adults This conversation is filled with heart, impact, and hope—don’t miss it! 🎙️ City Center Website: Here Contact Lorin: Here Follow or Donate to CASA of Fresno and Madera Counties: Linktree Instagram: @casafresno_madera Facebook: CASA of Fresno and Madera Counties LinkedIn: CASA of Fresno and Madera Call/Text: 988 The 988 Lifeline provides 24/7, free and confidential support for people in distress, prevention and crisis resources for you or your loved ones, and best practices for professionals in the United States.

  2. 02/11/2025

    Episode 22: From Newsroom to Center Stage: Fabiola Ramirez on Storytelling, Community, and CASA’s Chef Cook-Off

    🎧 Welcome to the CASA F.A.M. Podcast!  ✨ In this episode, we’re joined by Fabiola Ramirez, a dynamic storyteller, social media expert, and community advocate who has made a lasting impact in Fresno. From reporting the news to shaping the city's digital presence, Fabiola shares the inspiring journey that led her from the newsroom to leadership roles in media and community outreach. She opens up about the challenges she faced pursuing higher education and a career in journalism, her passion for mentorship, and why giving back is at the heart of everything she does. ✨ As the MC for CASA’s 4th Annual Chef Cook-Off, Fabiola also gives us an exciting look at what’s in store for this year’s event, how she prepares for hosting, and why CASA’s mission to support foster youth is so important to her. Plus, we chat about her love for fashion, fitness, and—since it’s a food event—her ultimate favorite and least favorite dishes! 🍽️ Tune in for an engaging and heartfelt conversation you won’t want to miss! Fabiola's Instagram: Click Here Follow or Donate to CASA of Fresno and Madera Counties: Linktree Instagram: @casafresno_madera Facebook: CASA of Fresno and Madera Counties LinkedIn: CASA of Fresno and Madera Call/Text: 988 The 988 Lifeline provides 24/7, free and confidential support for people in distress, prevention and crisis resources for you or your loved ones, and best practices for professionals in the United States.

  3. 12/03/2024

    Episode 20: Brotherhood on Wheels: Supporting Foster Youth with Smoke & Iron MC

    In this special CASA FAM episode, we sit down with Jason, a member of the Smoke & Iron Motorcycle Club (SIFFMC), and Mike, the national president of the club. SIFFMC is a unique brotherhood of firefighters who share a passion for riding motorcycles and giving back to their communities. They’re here to talk about their collaboration with CASA and Willow Tree Farms for the Rooted in Hope event. Learn how this incredible fundraiser, running until December 6th, gives you the chance to win a Christmas tree or wreath while supporting foster youth. We’ll explore how Jason and Mike got involved with SIFFMC, the mission of their club, and their personal journeys in firefighting and community service. Tune in to hear their inspiring stories of brotherhood, passion, and purpose! 🎄 Don’t miss out on the Rooted in Hope event—grab your $10 ticket today and help spread holiday cheer to those who need it most! 🎟️ Tickets: $10 each 📲 Venmo: @Sta3_ThirdAlarm_SIFFMC 🎁 Prizes: 1️⃣ 8-9’ Fresh Cut Christmas Tree 2️⃣ 7-8’ Fresh Cut Christmas Tree 3️⃣ Large Custom Christmas Wreath 📅 Raffle Draw: Rooted In Hope! Friday, Dec. 6th, 4 PM @ Willow Tree Farm (corner of Shepherd & Willow) Instagrams: Willow Tree Farm Smoke & Iron MC Follow or Donate to CASA of Fresno and Madera Counties: Linktree Instagram: @casafresno_madera Facebook: CASA of Fresno and Madera Counties LinkedIn: CASA of Fresno and Madera Call/Text: 988 The 988 Lifeline provides 24/7, free and confidential support for people in distress, prevention and crisis resources for you or your loved ones, and best practices for professionals in the United States.

  4. 10/29/2024

    Episode 19: Building Community & Celebrating Culture: A Real Estate Journey with Noe Cruz

    Welcome to the CASA FAM Podcast! Join us as we dive into the dynamic world of real estate with our special guest, Noe Cruz from All State Homes Real Estate. Not only is Noe a seasoned expert in the real estate market, but he's also deeply connected to the heart of our community.  In this episode, we explore his journey in real estate, valuable insights on today’s market, and the unique ways All State Homes builds trust and delivers top-notch service. Plus, as Dia De Muertos approaches, we’ll discuss the significance of this celebration and its cultural importance to our community. Whether you're curious about buying or selling a home, becoming a realtor, or just want to be inspired by community connection, this episode has something for everyone.  Dia De Muertos and Community:Real Estate Market Overview:All State Homes Services:Selling with Success:First-Time Buyer Support:Loan Program Options:Home-Buying Process Essentials:Becoming a Realtor:Loan Officer Licensing Process:Job Opportunities at All State Homes:Entering the Real Estate Market:Noe Cruz: Learn More All State Homes: Website Follow or Donate to CASA of Fresno and Madera Counties: Linktree Instagram: @casafresno_madera Facebook: CASA of Fresno and Madera Counties LinkedIn: CASA of Fresno and Madera Call/Text: 988 The 988 Lifeline provides 24/7, free and confidential support for people in distress, prevention and crisis resources for you or your loved ones, and best practices for professionals in the United States.

About

CASA F.A.M. PodcastReal Stories. Steady Voices. Lasting Impact. Be the Anchor in a Child's Storm. Hosted by Diane O'Canto | CASA of Fresno and Madera Counties Every child deserves someone they can count on. For children and youth navigating the foster care system, life can bring uncertainty, change, and challenges beyond their control. But even in the middle of life's storms, one consistent, caring adult can make a lasting difference. Welcome to the CASA F.A.M. Podcast, where meaningful conversations meet a mission that matters. Presented by CASA of Fresno and Madera Counties and hosted by Diane O'Canto, this podcast brings together the voices of Court Appointed Special Advocates, individuals with lived experience in foster care, community leaders, and changemakers who believe every child deserves to feel seen, heard, and supported. Through honest conversations, personal stories, and community connections, we explore the realities of foster care, the importance of advocacy, and the lasting impact of showing up for someone when they need it most. At CASA, our mission is to train and support volunteers who advocate for children and youth in foster care, helping ensure their voices are heard, their needs are recognized, and they have the opportunity to reach their full potential. Because being an anchor isn't about stopping the storm. It's about being someone a child can count on while they navigate through it. Whether you're an Advocate, a community supporter, or someone looking for a meaningful way to make a difference, there's a place for you in the CASA F.A.M. You don't have to change the whole world to change a child's world. Become Someone a Child Can Count On. Learn how you can become a Court Appointed Special Advocate and make a lasting difference in the life of a child or youth in foster care. Website: https://www.casafresnomadera.org/become-an-advocate/ Instagram: @casafresno_madera