Louisiana CASA Honors 2025–2026 Heart of Advocacy Award Recipient, Ja'Nika Stanley

Congratulations to former Capital Area CASA foster youth, Ja’Nika Stanley, on receiving the inaugural 2026 Heart of Advocacy Award. At the Louisiana CASA Conference, we had the honor of hearing her share her story—and speak so powerfully about the village that surrounded her during her time in foster care.

Ja’Nika’s strength, resilience, and determination have led her to accomplish so much, and this award celebrates not only where she came from, but everything she continues to become. Through every challenge, she has continued to rise, inspire others, and advocate for children who deserve the same love and support she received.

This recognition is made even more special knowing her foster parent is our very own Lead Advocate Supervisor, Sharon Norwood. The love, stability, and unwavering support Sharon poured into Ja’Nika’s life is a powerful example of what every child in foster care deserves. Ja’Nika’s CASA advocate, Jordyn Martin, was also present to celebrate and support her on this incredible day.

Ja’Nika spoke about the importance of having DCFS workers, judges, foster parents, and CASAs who show up, believe in you, advocate for you, and never let you feel alone. Her story is proof that when a strong village surrounds a child, lives are changed forever.

Every child in foster care deserves that same level of support, stability, and unconditional care. We are so proud of Ja’Nika and grateful to have witnessed and celebrated this powerful moment.