PATRICIA HIDALGO

Court Appointed Advocate since: 2008

How did you decide to become a Child Advocate volunteer? After college, I spent a lot of time searching for ways to give back to the Houston community.  When I learned about the work that Child Advocates does, I knew that it was the perfect way for me to  make a difference in people's lives.  There's nothing more important than our children, since they grow up to become us.

Your most memorable experience as a court appointed advocate ... At Christmas time, Child Advocates has an amazing program called Santa's Wish Lists that allow the kids to send a "Letter to Santa" asking for things that they want for the holidays. A sponsor then goes out and makes sure to get several things from each child's list so that everyone gets something they really wanted. The first holiday season I was an advocate, I was talking to one of my CAI kids a few weeks after Christmas to catch up on how she was doing and how she liked her presents.  She looked me in the eye and said "You know, this is the first year I didn't have to make up presents to tell the other kids about.  I used to be embarrassed because we never got anything and everyone else did, so I just made up stuff so I wouldn't feel bad. This year, I got my own really awesome presents! This is the best Christmas I've ever had.  Thank you so, so much!"

What is your life like outside of volunteering with Child Advocates? BUSY.  I am a full-time IT analyst at a software company, and every time I think I've found the last bug, another one skitters in!  After work I like to relax with my friends at the pub, read, practice yoga, or sing karaoke.  Nothing cheers me up faster than singing, and singing in public keeps me from taking myself too seriously!  I also make sure to find time to spend with my own wonderful family, including my two kitties, Dagda and Selene.

Tips you’d give to people who are interested in volunteering for Child Advocates, but haven’t yet made the commitment. (1) sign up for Advocacy University even if you're not sure about the program.  It's just one Saturday, and a few days after work in the evenings - less than a workweek of time.  What you'll learn will stay with you for the rest of your life. (2) join CAI with a friend!  Two advocates are better than one, and it's easier to get off the couch and in the action if you've got a pal to push you. (3) consider attending a Child Advocates function such as a fundraiser or a Young Professionals for Children social event to learn more before you dive in. (4) make the choice to become a part-time hero and change a child's life today!

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