Texas Border Business
By Roberto Hugo González
Jay Leal, Chief Information Officer at Vantage Bank, has been officially sworn in as a Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) volunteer in Hidalgo County. This appointment marks a significant commitment by a prominent financial leader to support children and families involved in the local foster care system.
“I am excited to share that I have been sworn in as a CASA of Hidalgo County volunteer,” said Leal. “Also known as Court Appointed Special Advocates, I will be advocating directly with children and families involved in the foster care system in Hidalgo County.”
CASA volunteers serve a critical role within the child welfare system. They are appointed by a judge and entrusted with the responsibility of representing the best interests of children in court and throughout the legal process. According to Leal, “CASA volunteers go through hours of in-depth, pre-service training before a judge appoints us to a case.”
The role of a CASA extends beyond courtroom recommendations. Volunteers work closely with children and the professionals involved in their care, providing consistent presence and guidance through often difficult transitions. “We advocate for the child we represent in every facet of their life and make recommendations to the court about their best interest,” Leal explained.
The CASA mission emphasizes family reunification whenever safely possible. “Volunteers advocate for reunification as our primary goal whenever it is safe and possible to do so,” said Leal. “When reunification is not an option, we may advocate for the child to live with another relative or family friend. We can also advocate for the child to be placed in an adoptive home.”
Leal highlighted the consistency CASA volunteers provide, noting that, “In all cases, CASA volunteers are steadfast, consistent presences for the children we serve, making sure they are safe and have the resources and connections they need to grow and thrive.”
This consistent engagement includes helping families build long-term support systems. “We work with families to build life-long support systems for both the child and parents that will continue after the case is closed,” he added.
Assuming the CASA role while serving as a senior executive underscores Leal’s commitment to civic engagement and social responsibility. His involvement reflects a broader model of leadership that extends beyond the workplace and into direct community impact.
“I am looking forward to this challenging and rewarding experience,” Leal said.
Through this initiative, Leal joins a network of trained volunteers across the country dedicated to supporting some of the most vulnerable members of the community. His participation brings visibility to the critical work CASA performs and demonstrates how professionals can engage meaningfully with issues that matter beyond their industries.
