Each month, CASA of East Tennessee shines a spotlight on a particular volunteer who has gone above and beyond in their service of Knox County children. This month, we would like to offer a round of applause to Jim Carroll!
We asked Jim what attracted him to the CASA program, and how has being a CASA advocate met or challenged his expectations.
Jim: "The chance to make a meaningful difference in the lives of children who really need help. A family member had shared his father's experience as a CASA volunteer in Florida and how both gratifying and challenging the experience had been. My experience with the children, parents, and Court has been eye opening, but thanks to the extensive training not unexpected.
Jim told us what he has enjoyed about being a CASA volunteer:
"I've worked with a range of children from toddlers to teens, boys and girls, and am amazed at their resilience despite difficult situations. It makes you happy to be able to help ensure their health and safety. It's also been great to work with folks who give unselfishly of themselves. I just like nice people!"
Jim lives with Vicki, his wife of 38 years. He is looking forward to an upcoming trip to NYC for a weekend birthday celebration with his brothers and his two sons. They'll be seeing a game at Yankee Stadium, which is especially meaningful because Jim was raised in the NYC area and attended his first Yankee game nearly 60 years ago!
Jim travels between Knoxville, Little Rock, and Atlanta to spend time with with his four grandchildren. Jim has lived in Knoxville since 1998. He says it is easy to remember, since that was the year Tennessee became National Champs and forever converted his entire family to Vol Fandom.
Thank you Jim!