Getting It Done: Strengthening Advocacy in Practice
On a Saturday morning in March, CASA Essex advocates showed up with intention—not just to learn, but to strengthen how they advocate for the children who rely on them.
Now in its third year, Getting It Done conference continues to be a cornerstone of CASA Essex’s commitment to equipping volunteers with the skills needed to navigate the complexities of child advocacy with confidence and care.
This year’s training, hosted in partnership with Teen Speak NJ, focused on one of the most critical tools an advocate has: communication. Through interactive exercises and real-world scenarios, advocates built practical strategies to engage youth, navigate difficult conversations, and, most importantly, build trust.
Developed by Dr. Jennifer Salerno and supported by the New Jersey Department of Health, the training introduced motivational interviewing techniques, an approach grounded in empathy and nonjudgmental dialogue. For children who have experienced trauma, how something is said can be just as important as what is said. This work ensures advocates are prepared to meet youth where they are, with understanding and respect.
For many advocates, the impact of the training was immediate:
· “Very informative—I feel equipped with new techniques and tools.”
· “Very helpful. Good specific and practical suggestions and guidance (especially the don't use "I" suggestions)”
· “Learning new skills that can be used with children of any age.”
· “Teen Speak was great! So relatable and applicable for all relationships. Presenters were so good at explaining and clarifying.”
Just as important as the training itself was the space it created by bringing advocates together to share experiences, learn from one another, and strengthen the sense of community that sustains this work.
As CASA Essex continues to build momentum in its 40th year, Getting It Done reflects a core truth: when we invest in our advocates, we strengthen every outcome for the children we serve.
