Wendy Gish – October 2022
This month we are shining the Spotlight on Wendy Gish! Wendy is advocating for a 16 year old girl who is going into guardianship with her grandmother. Wendy has been very consistent with keeping the team informed on how her the young lady is doing in school and living with grandmother. Wendy also provides the family with additional services and opportunities they might be interested in.
”I live in Columbia with my husband, Aron, two dogs, Franklin and Sparky, and our daughter’s snake, Poncho, who I begrudgingly take care of while she attends Mizzou. I have worked at MBS Textbook Exchange since 2000 and am currently the Director of Marketing Services. When I’m not working or volunteering, I’m usually reading (I’m up to 51 books this year), exercising or enjoying live music or stand-up comedy.
I first heard about CASA when one of my coworker friends asked me to serve as a reference for her CASA volunteer application. As I read through the questions on the reference form, I realized the gravity of the volunteer position. I wanted to learn more and possibly get involved myself. Around that same time, the Olympics were airing and I saw commercials for CASA that made me tear up; I was moved. I felt like it was a sign! My only child was getting ready to leave for college, and it had always been my plan to get more deeply involved in the community as soon as I had more time. CASA checked all the boxes of what I was looking for in a local organization.
I wholeheartedly believe in CASA’s mission, am inspired by the staff’s passion and appreciate all their support. I am especially grateful to be in my CASA kid’s life and be able to elevate her voice, watch her become more assertive and help prepare her for a successful future. She is a wonderful kid who has taught me so much about resilience and empathy”.
It takes a special person to advocate for an older youth. Thank you Wendy for being that special person! We appreciate all that you are doing for CASA and your child.