Serving Others Has Always Been Part of Who I Am
At Darlena’s Financial Services, my work is about much more than bookkeeping, payroll, and financial reports. It’s about helping people. Every client has worked hard to build their business, and I believe they deserve someone who will serve them with integrity, honesty, and genuine care.
Giving back to my community has always been important to me, which is one of the reasons I chose to become a Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA).
Answering a Calling
For many years, becoming a CASA was something that quietly remained on my heart. I knew it was something I wanted to do, but I also knew the timing had to be right.
As I built my business, I realized one of the greatest blessings of being a business owner is having the flexibility to invest my time in causes that truly matter. When the opportunity came, I knew it was time to answer that calling.
In June 2026, I was honored to be sworn in as a CASA volunteer with CASA of Linn County.
What Is a CASA?
A Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) is a trained volunteer appointed by a judge to advocate for the best interests of children involved in the foster care system. CASA volunteers get to know the child, gather information from everyone involved in the child’s life, and provide the court with independent recommendations focused solely on what is best for that child.
Every child deserves to have someone whose only priority is ensuring their voice is heard.
Why This Matters to Me
Throughout my life, I have seen how much a caring, consistent presence can mean during difficult seasons. Becoming a CASA has reinforced the importance of compassion, patience, accountability, and grace. It has also reminded me that every person has a story, and every family deserves to be treated with dignity and respect.
While I may not be able to change every situation, I can show up, listen, advocate, and make a difference in the life of a child.
The Values I Bring to My Clients
The same principles that guide me as a CASA volunteer guide me in my business.
I believe in honesty, integrity, accountability, and treating every client with respect. My goal is to provide dependable financial services while building relationships based on trust and open communication.
My experiences as a CASA continue to strengthen the qualities I bring to my clients every day—patience, objectivity, careful listening, professionalism, and a commitment to serving others with integrity.
Giving Back Matters
Community involvement is an important part of who I am. Becoming a CASA is one way I can give back while helping create a brighter future for children in our community.
I am grateful for the opportunity to serve both my clients and my community. I believe that success isn’t measured only by the businesses we build, but also by the lives we touch along the way.
