Photo By Staff Sgt. Sha Mar Smith | Airman First Class Natalie Rubenak, 436th Training Squadron instructional media...... read more read more
DYESS AIR FORCE BASE, Texas --
“As someone who experienced adolescent trauma, I understand the importance of having someone on your side. Children are the most vulnerable population and I feel that once they get put into the system, they can lose their voice and their power. I want to help children find their voice again,” she said
For U.S. Air Force Airman First Class Natalie Rubenak, 436th Training Squadron instructional media designer, fighting for kids has been a long time passion.
“I’m hoping that CASA is something I stay involved with,” she said. “I come from a family of social workers so I am somewhat familiar with the system. I feel very passionate about helping children find their voice and even if I don’t end up becoming a social worker, I would love to continue to volunteer my time there.”
Rubenak volunteers in the local community as a Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) member in Abilene, Texas. A CASA member is a supportive adult for children in foster care that don’t have help navigating court rooms.
“I feel like the most rewarding part of the program will be seeing the child grow,” said Rubenak. “As a case goes on, I’m sure it can feel very defeating. But I think when the child realizes that I’m there to stay, and there to help them, that they will open up a bit.”
Rubenak makes sure to lean onto her support system to be an effective member of the CASA program.
“I came to the conclusion that as long as I have a support system on my end, helping me through the difficult times, then I can be that support system for a child in need. My husband has been incredibly supportive through the training process and is my biggest support system. I know I’ll be able to lean on him when I am struggling,” she said.
Rubenak is known to be a determined and hardworking Airman while maintaining a positive attitude.
“A1C Rubenak is the type of teammate you can count on for anything. She’s a self-starter, she constantly looks for new ways to improve, and she takes her coworkers along with her in success,” said U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Madison Sylvester, 436th Training Squadron instructional production videographer at Dyess Ait Force Base, Texas. “My favorite thing about Natalie is that she cares. She holds space for friends and co-workers alike when they need it.”
Rubenak hopes to inspire more people to join the CASA program and help out children in the foster care system.
“I would definitely encourage other service members to join,” she said with cheerfulness in her voice. “If there are service members who are out there looking for a way to serve their community and they feel like they have the time, then I would absolutely encourage them.”
For more information about the CASA program or volunteer opportunities visit bigcountrycasa.org.
| Date Taken: | 10.20.2021 |
| Date Posted: | 10.20.2021 12:15 |
| Story ID: | 407613 |
| Location: | TX, US |
| Web Views: | 94 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
This work, 3N0X6 Feature Story, by SSgt Sha Mar Smith, identified by DVIDS, must comply with the restrictions shown on https://www.dvidshub.net/about/copyright.
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