Dilys Garcia, Executive Director, CASA Los Angeles

By Caroline Cox

It’s safe to say Dilys Tosteson Garcia didn’t quite know what she was getting into when she stepped up as head of CASA Los Angeles. The nonprofit helps abused and neglected children who have been removed from their homes by social services. Shortly after taking the position in July 2010, CASA LA lost its funding due to state budget cuts..

But Garcia charged ahead anyway – successfully turning a publicly funded organization into one completely supported by private donations from businesses and the community. Prior to working with CASA LA, she headed the business consulting practice Garcia & Associates. She was also president and CEO of an independent and Latino-owned advertising and marketing agency, working with clients like American Honda, Allstate and Verizon.

PINK: What methods of outreach do you use?

Dilys Tosteson Garcia: Word of mouth is the most powerful tool we have. Our volunteers speak to others about their work with children. Our board and other volunteers speak to community groups. We solicit media coverage when we have good stories to tell, conduct outreach at community events and are always looking for opportunities to tell the CASA story. When told, people are usually very responsive.

PINK: What’s been your proudest moment?

DTG: My most memorable impression is of a 15-year-old young girl who appeared in court for her semi-annual progress hearing. She was alone – no parents, relatives, siblings or friends of any kind. She was living in a group home where she had been for several years and from which she will probably [turn 18] without ever having a permanent family.

The judge attempted to connect with her in a variety of ways. The young girl was uncommunicative until the judge hit on her love of reading. Slowly the judge uncovered this passion in a child otherwise non-responsive to counseling and school. It was heartbreaking to see how alone she was. Many children present complex problems. None are as devastating as being alone.

PINK: What drives you to keep going when times are tough?

DTG:There are 25,000 children in care in our county alone and they need help. Their families have faltered for any number of reasons. The system is overwhelmed providing solutions for these children and their families. These children are our community’s future and knowing what a huge difference CASA makes keeps me focused and passionate, even when the chips are down.