EDDY DE LOS SANTOS

Court Appointed Advocate since: 2001

How did you decide to become a Child Advocate volunteer? I attended an informational meeting about Child Advocates during my first year of law school and discovered the desperate need for volunteers to help Houston’s children.

Your most memorable experience as a court appointed advocate ... My most memorable experience was working on a case with alleged shaken baby syndrome. The little girl who was hurt was just one month older than my own little girl and her vision was impaired. I remember meeting the little girl for the first time and watching her smile and follow my voice as I talked to her. It broke my heart to know that at times, she was in pain. However, even though she was so little, she had tremendous strength and a spirit unlike anyone I have ever known.

Which case will you never forget? I will never forget my first case because I felt I really made a difference. I was appointed to a family consisting of a young, single mother and her five children. The children were taken into custody as a result of neglect. Understandably, the children were experiencing moments of anger, depression, confusion, and self-doubt. Four of the children took to me relatively quickly, but the oldest son was hesitant. He was unwelcoming of any authority especially from someone outside his family. By the end of the case, he began to trust me and we developed a good relationship that led to positive character changes in him and his siblings.

What inspires you to continue volunteering? Just knowing that I can help keep children safe and ensure they are cared for by a family that loves them.

Tips you’d give to people who are interested in volunteering for Child Advocates, but haven’t yet made the commitment. Making the commitment to Houston’s children will be one of the most rewarding experiences of your life. Make it your mission to end the cycle of abuse. Start small ... make it your goal to help one child. If we all take this approach, we can ensure the safety of our city’s children. My time with Child Advocates has been such a blessing. I am thankful that I am in a situation to help Houston’s abused children and do my part to break the cycle of abuse.