Feb 19 2026 05:32
Nancy McCullar
When Cody (all names and details are altered for confidentiality) steps up to the plate on the baseball field, there’s more than a game on the line. For the 17-year-old foster teen, who is on the autism spectrum, every practice, every swing, every shared laugh with teammates represents something bigger: belonging.
And standing quietly in his corner is CASA volunteer Howard — a steady, encouraging presence who has helped Cody open doors to friendships, faith, and new passions over the past year.
Last summer, Cody joined a local baseball league, where he met players from school teams across the county, including athletes from his own school. He held his own physically — but what meant even more was how naturally he began fitting in socially.
“He really found his stride,” Howard has shared with those supporting Cody’s journey. Cody showed up for practices and games, put in the work, and genuinely enjoyed being part of something bigger than himself.
The momentum didn’t stop there. After connecting with Cody’s teachers at the start of the school year, Howard worked with school staff to support not only his academics but also his social growth. One teacher intentionally introduced Cody to a student on the baseball team — a small gesture that led to Cody being included in informal team workouts.
He’s been hitting the weight room consistently, and the progress shows. Cody is proud of the muscle he’s building — and the discipline behind it. He also understands that if he wants to officially try out for the team in the spring, his grades have to reflect that same effort. In fact, he signed a “contract” with one teacher, committing to raise his grade to an 87. It’s a powerful sign of a young man beginning to hold himself accountable for his dreams.But Cody’s growth isn’t just happening on the field.
Last November, Cody invited CASA volunteer Howard to attend his neighborhood church with him. Over the past several months, Howard has accompanied Cody and watched him build another kind of team — a church community that knows him by name. During that time, Cody formed a special bond with Bill, a retired teacher who welcomed him into church events and become a positive role model in his life.
In one especially moving moment, Cody took a major step on his own: he approached the pastor and asked to be baptized — without any coaching or prompting. For a teen who has sometimes struggled socially, advocating for himself in such a meaningful way speaks volumes.
And then there’s music. Cody has always had an ear for piano, picking out melodies on his own. Now, he’s ready for formal lessons. With Howard’s help, arrangements have been made for weekly instruction at the church, in a safe and supportive setting. For his 17th birthday, Cody received an electric keyboard — and he’s already eager to practice.
Each of these milestones may seem small on their own. But together, they tell a bigger story: a young man building confidence, community and independence step by step. Behind the scenes, a revised education plan is nearly complete to ensure Cody continues receiving the academic support he needs. But outside the classroom, something just as important is happening.
He’s making friends.
He’s setting goals.
He’s stepping into leadership.
He’s speaking up for himself.
And Howard, like many CASA volunteers in Berks County, is doing what CASAs do best — showing up, making connections, and believing in a young person’s potential.
Cody is growing up. And thanks to one consistent advocate and a community that has embraced him, he’s not doing it alone.