March is National Social Work Month—a time to recognize the people working tirelessly to uplift communities and improve lives through advocacy, compassion, and unwavering support. At CASA of the Eastern Panhandle, we’re proud to spotlight Kim Naiman, our Education Advocate, whose path into this work is rooted in personal connection, professional insight, and a deep belief in the power of presence.
Kim’s journey with CASA began in 2017, when a close friend—facing a stage four cancer diagnosis—invited her to take on something meaningful together.
“She said, ‘Hey, I’m doing this thing,’ and asked if I wanted to join her,” Kim recalls.
That “thing” was becoming a CASA volunteer. They partnered on their first cases, supporting children in need through advocacy in the court system. Although Kim’s friend has since passed away, Kim has continued the work in her honor, ensuring her legacy of service lives on.
Before the pandemic, Kim worked as a substitute special education aide, where she witnessed firsthand how disruptions in education deeply impacted children—especially those already facing challenges.
“When I put that together with my experience as a CASA advocate, it really highlighted the need for someone to help kids succeed in school,” she says.
That realization led her to focus on education advocacy within CASA, working to ensure that every child has a fair shot at learning and growing.
Now, as an Education Advocate, Kim bridges the gap between the school system and the courtroom, helping children in foster care receive the support they need to thrive academically. She works alongside our dedicated staff and volunteers to identify needs, remove barriers, and remind each child that someone is fighting for their future.
For those considering becoming a CASA, Kim offers a heartfelt perspective:
“There’s definitely a commitment, but if you want to make a difference in someone’s life—and you have the time and selflessness to give—it’s worth trying.”
She emphasizes that CASA isn’t about perfection or having all the answers. It’s about showing up, speaking up, and standing by a child who needs an advocate.
“There are challenges. It’s not always easy. But you’re not alone—we have an amazing staff and so much support. We do this work because we love it, and we want others to experience how meaningful it is.”
This National Social Work Month, we celebrate Kim and all those who choose advocacy, who show up in quiet but powerful ways, and who remind us that one person can make a difference.
