A Lifetime of Service: Honoring Navy Veteran and CASA Volunteer Joseph Miskell
This Veterans Day, CASA of Tarrant County is proud to recognize the veterans within our volunteer family whose commitment to service continues long after their military careers have ended. For CASA volunteer Joseph Miskell, serving others has always been more than a responsibility. It's a calling that has taken him around the world and, ultimately, into the lives of children who need someone they can count on.
From Serving His Country to Serving His Community
Joseph spent more than nine years serving in the United States Navy, beginning with approximately two years of specialized training to operate naval nuclear reactors. He then spent more than five years stationed aboard the USS Enterprise (CVN-65) before completing his final two years of service in Connecticut, where he trained new sailors to operate naval reactors.
His decision to enlist was rooted in a desire to give back to his country, along with a sense of adventure.
"I joined the Service because I thought it was important to serve my country. I chose the US Navy because just as the television ads say, 'it's not a job, it's an adventure.'"
That adventure took Joseph around the world, providing experiences he still remembers fondly, including an African safari in Mombasa, Kenya, and white-water rafting in the mountains of Brazil.
But years after his military service, Joseph found another meaningful way to make a difference, this time much closer to home.
A New Mission: Advocating for Children in Foster Care
Joseph's journey to becoming a CASA volunteer began with his love for children and a desire to help those who need someone in their corner.
"I love children and unfortunately, I did not have any of my own. CASA not only allows me to have my CASA kids but I can help children that are in need. I cannot think of any better way to provide service."
As a Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA), Joseph provides a consistent, caring presence for children navigating the foster care system. Over the past two and a half years, he has advocated for three children, building relationships rooted in trust, dependability, and compassion.
For Joseph, the transition from military service to volunteer advocacy was a natural one. Although the roles are different, the motivation behind them remains the same.
"I joined both for the opportunity to serve: I joined the military in order to serve my country. I joined CASA to serve children that need someone dependable in their life."
The Power of Commitment and Keeping Promises
Throughout his military career, Joseph learned the importance of commitment, responsibility, and teamwork. Today, those same values guide his work as a CASA volunteer.
"Many of the values used in military service carry over to my role as a CASA volunteer. Commitment is the number one value."
Joseph emphasizes that for children who have experienced abuse, neglect, or broken promises, having a dependable adult in their lives can make an extraordinary difference.
"Just as in military service, you need commitment to ensure that you see your children every month. You must follow through on your promises."
He believes consistency is one of the most meaningful things a CASA volunteer can offer.
"The CASA volunteer is someone that keeps their promises, Period. Your CASA kids know that if you promise something they can depend on it."
It's a simple principle with a powerful impact: Show up. Follow through. Be someone a child can trust.
Joseph also recognizes that effective advocacy requires teamwork. Just as he relied on others during his military career, he appreciates the support and guidance CASA volunteers receive from their supervisors, trainers, and fellow advocates.
"CASA of Tarrant County personnel, especially your CASA supervisor, CASA trainers, etc. are always there for you to provide guidance and assistance where needed."
That support helps volunteers like Joseph navigate challenges and remain focused on what matters most: the children they serve.
Being an Anchor for Children Who Need One
When asked what he wants others to understand about service, Joseph speaks passionately about the unique role CASA volunteers play in children's lives.
"Volunteering with CASA is probably even more important than volunteering in the military. This is because you are the one person in the lives of these children that they can depend on."
While children in foster care may interact with many professionals throughout their cases, CASA volunteers have the opportunity to provide individualized attention and consistent support.
"These children need and anchor to cling to and they know that you will be there for them."
For Joseph, being that dependable presence is both a responsibility and a privilege. His commitment is a reminder that meaningful advocacy isn't always about grand gestures. Sometimes, the greatest impact comes from simply being there, listening, showing up, and keeping your word.
A Rewarding Experience Beyond Measure
After two and a half years as a CASA volunteer, Joseph has seen firsthand the difference one person can make in a child's life.
But when reflecting on his experience, he is quick to point out that the rewards of volunteering go both ways.
"I know that I have helped my three CASA children of the last two and a half years. They are better for me being in their lives. As much as I have helped them, I believe that I have gotten more out of it than they have."
For anyone considering becoming a CASA volunteer, Joseph offers heartfelt encouragement:
"Knowing that their lives are better for me being in them is PRICELESS!!! I would tell anyone considering becoming a CASA that it is one of the most rewarding things they can do for these children and themselves."
Honoring Those Who Continue to Serve
This Veterans Day, CASA of Tarrant County extends our deepest gratitude to Joseph and all the veterans who have dedicated their lives to serving others.
Joseph's story reminds us that service doesn't have to end when a military uniform is retired. It can continue through acts of kindness, compassion, and advocacy that change lives right here in our community.
Thank you, Joseph, for your service to our country, your dedication to children in foster care, and your unwavering commitment to being someone they can depend on.