In a world often quick to label and categorize, Ron Onyon is a compelling testament of the power of breaking stereotypes – standing up and standing above for a bigger purpose. A veteran of the U.S. Air Force and National Guard, Onyon has transitioned his commitment to service into a new mission: advocating for vulnerable children in foster care as a volunteer with CASA of Tarrant County. His journey is a powerful call to action, particularly for men – that stepping forward can make an indelible difference in the lives of children who need it most – all by just talking with them a few hours a month.
While Onyon has served as an volunteer for CASA of Tarrant County for two years, his passion for being an advocate for children spans almost two decades. During his time in the Air Force, his roommate shared his story growing up as a child in foster care and about CASA. That first-hand account propelled him into his next journey – becoming a licensed foster family. For more than 14 years, he and his wife welcomed numerous children into their home and even adopted some, repeatedly witnessing the invaluable role of CASA volunteers and the lasting impact those individuals made in their lives.
“All of the kids were super excited when a CASA showed up,” he shared. “They were high-fiving them and being consistent role models. They knew that their CASA was always going to be there,” he continued…”and that is what these kids needed, with advocacy and people in their life.”
Now as a Court Appointed Special Advocate himself, he has learned the true meaning of “being there.” After simply reaching out to one of the kids he had been working with to say hi and ask how his day was, the child stopped him mid-conversation. “I really enjoy talking to you, you just listen, you don’t tell me what I need to do and you don’t judge,” Onyon remembered him saying. “And it was at that time I realized that these little conversations…they had a huge impact by just being present.”
Onyon understands even more the dire need for CASA volunteers, especially men. “He passionately believes that men can—and should—embody the caring, emotional, and dependable support that children desperately need. “Breaking the stereotype that men don’t provide emotional support and advocacy shows that we do care—and that children can have a consistent male role model in their lives.
He also challenges traditional ideas about volunteers, emphasizing that individuals from all backgrounds and experiences are essential to meeting the unique needs of children in the foster care system. The more diverse we are as volunteers, the more needs we can meet the needs of these kids,” he explains.
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However the biggest hurdle to recruiting more CASAs, Onyon believes, isn’t a lack of time or emotional capacity, but simply a lack of awareness. “Every time I talk to somebody, it’s never a roadblock of family, time commitment, or emotional support. People just don’t know about it.” This underscores the critical need for outreach and information sharing. “The more people get the word out, the more people will share. Get the word out, share on social media, pass it in your emails, talk about it anytime possible. That is just as important as people that are volunteering.”
For those hesitant about the time commitment, Onyon offers a compelling perspective. “When you think about just how much time you spend hanging around, playing on your phone, we are talking minutes a day, a few hours a month, and you change children’s lives forever.” He promises, “you’ll feel special too. I mean, it really is a win-win for everybody. So the hardest part is just getting over that hump of volunteering. Once you get over it, you’ll never regret it.”
Onyon’s story is a powerful reminder that making a difference isn’t about finding reasons to opt out; it’s about choosing to lean in. It’s about recognizing that every single action, no matter how small, can create a ripple effect of positive change. In a world craving consistent male role models and genuine care, Onyon, the humble veteran with a big heart, shows us that the most impactful heroes are often the ones who simply choose to be there. His message is clear: these children are waiting, and your presence can truly change their lives.
“Whether it is through donation, outreach, getting the word out about what we do or volunteering makes an impact and every little bit matters because the ripple effect is big,” Onyon concluded.
To learn more about how you can become a volunteer for CASA of Tarrant County, visit speakupforachild.org.
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