Volunteer Spotlight -
Lena Siddiqi
“We advocate for children in foster care, going through training to understand each case, meeting with everyone involved, and determining what’s truly in the child’s best interest. The system is stretched thin, and volunteering is a way to give back to vulnerable kids and families.”
Meet Lena Siddiqi, a dedicated CASA volunteer born and raised in South Jersey! As a mother of two children, ages 12 and 10, Lena balances family life, part-time work, and a wide range of volunteer commitments, all while advocating for children in foster care. Lena heard about CASA through one of her other volunteer groups, and after doing more research, decided it was an opportunity she was interested in pursuing.
Almost three years later, she is on her second case! Her first case was a memorable one, ending with the child being adopted by their paternal grandparents, and the biological mother has been able to remain involved in the child’s life. Her current case presents a very different experience, but she continues to work with very kind children and is supporting their well-being.
Beyond CASA, Lena is actively engaged in her community, volunteering with CommUNITY SJP, a volunteer-driven organization that seeks to promote civic engagement and greater cross-cultural understanding through community service and social events in the South Jersey-Philadelphia region. They help organize monthly events, assemble bagged lunches, and put together care packages and backpacks for back-to-school season. She also participates with Muslims of South Jersey, celebrating her culture and heritage, and stays involved in her children’s school as part of the PTA and book fair activities. In her free time, Lena enjoys exercising, taking walks, and spending quality time with her family.
Becoming a CASA volunteer allowed Lena to support children and families while drawing on her personal experience as a parent. The role involves completing specialized training, meeting with everyone involved in a child’s life, and advocating for what is in the child’s best interest. CASA volunteers play a critical role in supporting a system that is often stretched thin. While challenges exist, such as navigating phone calls or coordinating with busy schedules, the rewards far outweigh the obstacles. For those considering becoming a CASA volunteer, she emphasizes the value of dedication, patience, and a genuine interest in making a difference in children’s lives. Lena’s commitment to CASA and the community exemplifies how one person’s advocacy can have a lasting positive impact on the lives of children and families!