Ricky Holtzlander- July 2025 ADVOCATE OF THE MONTH
Ricky Holtzlander
With six years of prior child welfare experience and knowledge in the field Ricky knew immediately he was going to be an advocate when the opportunity presented itself. It's now been over two years as a CASA. Unwavering advocacy, even in the most trying of times, is what makes Ricky's perseverance apparent and what makes him an asset to our program.
What caused you to get involved with CASA?
Invaluable child welfare knowledge/experience and the calling to not waste that knowledge. Knowing that his experience in the field could go to good use is what compelled Ricky to advocate.
What has been the most rewarding part of being a CASA?
Being there for the kids during the good times and the tough times. Ricky has built a strong rapport with the children, so much so that they now mistakenly call him “Uncle Ricky”. He has become a trusted source of information during hearings, and the connection he has formed with Judge Vaughn continues to have a lasting impact on his work as a CASA. In the courtroom, his voice carries weight during testimony, leaving him with a profound sense of accomplishment rooted in the selflessness the role requires.
What’s your favorite way to connect with your CASA kids?
This comes naturally to Ricky, who often jokes that he’s still in disbelief about being an adult. His ability to connect with children stems from his own playful, big-kid spirit. With his CASA kids, Ricky brings that same energy—whether he’s getting shown up in a game of football or being dunked on during basketball. He embraces those moments as opportunities to bond. Ricky also draws strength from his role as the consistent, assigned advocate on the case, finding reassurance and purpose in showing up time and again to support and speak up for his kids.
Please share a special moment with us about your advocacy work with your CASA kids.
There have been countless meaningful moments in Ricky’s advocacy with CASA, but what stands out most is the ability to come full circle—applying his growing knowledge as a prospective social worker directly to the children he serves. That experience is rewarding beyond words.
