Mimi Peters: April 2021 Volunteer of the Month

Three-month old Abigail* came into CPS care after her parents were incarcerated due to substance abuse. Mimi Peters soon came into the picture as Abigail’s advocate. She hit the ground running and worked to establish trust and communication with Abigail’s caregiver and her parents.

Abigail's family had a history with CPS. The child’s parents had substance abuse issues in the past and had gone to rehab. However, the mother had relapsed a couple of times and struggled with her mental health. Abigail's father had an extensive criminal history. Once released from prison, he did not seem to show interest in taking the necessary steps to regain custody of his daughter.  

Fortunately, when Abigail's mother was released from prison with probation, she took action and was committed to reunify with her daughter. She made every effort to keep in compliance with her probation. Mimi was there every step of the way –verifying the mother’s progress, regularly monitoring the child’s well-being and keeping close communication with the child’s care providers, attorney ad litem and CPS. Mimi recognized the dedication of Abigail’s mother to regain custody of her daughter and served as a constant support to her. She encouraged her as she worked through her court-appointed services, all the while ensuring that the mother’s progress was on track and she would be able to provide a healthy environment for Abigail. Because of Mimi’s advocacy and efforts, Abigail and her mother were reunited, and Abigail is now in a safe environment. 

“I was glad to be a part of this successful case,” said Mimi. “This mom by far has done in the best in terms of working her services, maintaining her sobriety, managing her mental health, communicating with us, and making an effort to provide her child with a loving and safe home environment.”

What makes advocate Mimi Peters an incredible volunteer is her tenacity and commitment for the children on her cases, serving the best interest of the child. She is a shining example of building trusting relationships and working diligently with all parties involved, which proved to be the key to ensuring the reunification was successful and Abigail’s future was safe.

Because of her incredible work on this case, Mimi was named our April "Volunteer of the Month"! Congratulations, Mimi, and thank you for all you do for Houston's abused and neglected children. 

To learn how you can become a volunteer and make a difference like Mimi, click here.

*Names were changed to protect the identity of the children we help.