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

Meet Johnathan Sabado: Showing Up for Foster Youth, One Event at a Time

🎙 CASA Fam: Showing Up with Heart, featuring Johnathan In this inspiring episode of CASA Fam, we sit down with Johnathan, one of our dedicated CASA volunteers, to hear how he found his way to CASA and why he continues to show up with heart. From how he first heard about the organization to the moments that deepened his connection, Johnathan shares the impact of saying yes to service — even outside the traditional advocate role. He opens up about balancing volunteering with a busy schedule, what he loves most about our events, and how small acts of support can lead to big change for foster youth. His story is a powerful reminder that you don’t need to give a lot of time to make a meaningful difference. If you’ve been wondering how to get involved or felt unsure about where you fit in — this conversation is your sign to just start. Follow or Donate to CASA of Fresno and Madera Counties: Linktree [https://linktr.ee/casafresnomadera_] Instagram: @casafresno_madera [https://www.instagram.com/casafresno_madera/] Facebook: CASA of Fresno and Madera Counties [https://www.facebook.com/CASAofFresnoMadera/] LinkedIn: CASA of Fresno and Madera [https://www.linkedin.com/in/casa-of-fresno-and-madera-6474801a1/] 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.

Episode 25: The Power of People: Transforming Volunteerism with Betsy McFarland

In this episode of the CASA Fam Podcast, we sit down with volunteer engagement strategist Betsy McFarland [https://www.linkedin.com/in/betsymcfarland], a seasoned leader and problem-solver who has spent her career building sustainable, people-powered solutions for social impact organizations. Betsy shares how her background in animal welfare and national volunteer initiatives shaped her current work—empowering CASA programs like ours to strengthen recruitment pipelines, attract aligned volunteers, and build capacity for long-term change. Host Diane O’Canto reflects on her one-on-one work with Betsy through Cal CASA and how it shaped Fresno and Madera’s strategic volunteer efforts. Whether you're curious about volunteer engagement, nonprofit infrastructure, or how to truly connect with your community—this conversation offers inspiration, insight, and actionable advice. Connect with Betsy: https://adisagroup.com/about-us/  [https://adisagroup.com/about-us/] Follow or Donate to CASA of Fresno and Madera Counties: Linktree [https://linktr.ee/casafresnomadera_] Instagram: @casafresno_madera [https://www.instagram.com/casafresno_madera/] Facebook: CASA of Fresno and Madera Counties [https://www.facebook.com/CASAofFresnoMadera/] LinkedIn: CASA of Fresno and Madera [https://www.linkedin.com/in/casa-of-fresno-and-madera-6474801a1/] 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.

Episode 24: A Legacy of Empowerment: Wilma Tom Hashimoto’s CASA Farewell

In this heartfelt farewell episode, Wilma Tom Hashimoto looks back on her 15 impactful years with CASA of Fresno and Madera Counties – 8 years as a dedicated board member and 7 as Executive Director. Wilma shares her journey, leadership lessons, and the powerful moments that shaped her time at CASA, while offering a glimpse into the future she envisions for the organization. Listen in as Wilma reflects on: * Her early days at CASA and what inspired her to lead * The growth and transformation of CASA under her guidance * The importance of leadership, compassion, and building a mission-driven team * Her hopes for the next generation of CASA leaders * Personal moments that defined her career and the legacy she leaves behind Don't miss this inspiring conversation as Wilma shares her final message to the CASA community and the lasting impact she hopes to leave. Follow or Donate to CASA of Fresno and Madera Counties: Linktree [https://linktr.ee/casafresnomadera_] Instagram: @casafresno_madera [https://www.instagram.com/casafresno_madera/] Facebook: CASA of Fresno and Madera Counties [https://www.facebook.com/CASAofFresnoMadera/] LinkedIn: CASA of Fresno and Madera [https://www.linkedin.com/in/casa-of-fresno-and-madera-6474801a1/] 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.

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 [https://citycenterfresno.org/] Contact Lorin: Here [https://www.casafresnomadera.org/about/#team] Follow or Donate to CASA of Fresno and Madera Counties: Linktree [https://linktr.ee/casafresnomadera_] Instagram: @casafresno_madera [https://www.instagram.com/casafresno_madera/] Facebook: CASA of Fresno and Madera Counties [https://www.facebook.com/CASAofFresnoMadera/] LinkedIn: CASA of Fresno and Madera [https://www.linkedin.com/in/casa-of-fresno-and-madera-6474801a1/] 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.

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 [https://www.instagram.com/fabramireztv/?hl=en] Follow or Donate to CASA of Fresno and Madera Counties: Linktree [https://linktr.ee/casafresnomadera_] Instagram: @casafresno_madera [https://www.instagram.com/casafresno_madera/] Facebook: CASA of Fresno and Madera Counties [https://www.facebook.com/CASAofFresnoMadera/] LinkedIn: CASA of Fresno and Madera [https://www.linkedin.com/in/casa-of-fresno-and-madera-6474801a1/] 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.