With a degree in psychiatric social work, a long career in the District of Columbia Probation Office, and head of his own correctional consulting business, Al Schuman saw Fairfax Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) as a natural next step.

“My daughter-in-law was considering becoming a CASA volunteer, so she started telling me about it, and I decided I should volunteer, too,” said the McLean resident.

Did he ever. Al went through CASA training -- “pretty serious stuff” -- and served as a volunteer for nearly five years. He went on to help reorganize the Fairfax CASA office, join the Board of Directors, and become its president. “The more I got involved with CASA,” Al said, “the more I felt that it’s probably the most sophisticated volunteer program anywhere.”

As a long-time basketball coach as well as a CASA volunteer, Al understands the
important role one adult can have in a child’s life. “These cases can be life-and-death situations,” he said. "You can be the one [adult in a kid’s life] that makes a real difference. The difference between that kid making it and not making it.”

Now Al is preparing to walk the 3K on Saturday, April 28, at Fairfax CASA's Run for the Children. He looks forward to talking up his favorite cause with other runners and walkers. Last year, he even recruited a new volunteer. “It’s important to give back to the community,” Al said. “The reward? You can’t beat it.”

There is still time to register for Saturday's Run for the Children 10K Race & 3K Run/Walk. Sign up today and join in the fun!