Cynt Marshall is a longtime Preston Hollow resident, the former chief executive of the Dallas Mavericks, and a sworn Dallas CASA volunteer advocate, board member and past board chair. She and her husband Kenneth adopted two sons and two daughters through the child welfare system. This fall the Marshalls chair Dallas CASA's Champion of Children Award Dinner with Lael and Peter Brodsky. She answered our questions.
Q: Preston Hollow is known for residents who give back. What do you love most about living here?
The people. Preston Hollow is filled with individuals who care deeply about Dallas and are willing to step up when there's a need. I've met neighbors who support schools, nonprofits, churches and countless community initiatives. There is a strong spirit of generosity here, and that's something I truly appreciate.
Q: Why is Dallas CASA such an important part of your life?
People often ask what work has been the most meaningful to me. The answer is always work that changes lives. Dallas CASA gives ordinary people the opportunity to do something extraordinary for a child who has experienced abuse or neglect. As a volunteer advocate, you become a consistent presence for a child during one of the most difficult times in their life. That's powerful.
Q: You are chairing the Champion of Children Award Dinner. Why did you say yes?
Dallas CASA's mission is too important not to support. Every child deserves someone in their corner, and this event helps make that possible. It brings together community leaders, businesses, philanthropists and advocates who believe children in foster care deserve brighter futures. It's a celebration and a fundraiser, but it's also a call to action.
Q: Many readers know you from the Mavericks and from AT&T. How has that influenced your volunteer work?
Leadership is leadership, whether you're running a professional sports franchise, leading a company or advocating for a child. The principles are the same: listen, learn, build trust, act with integrity and serve others.
Q: What would surprise people most about serving as a volunteer advocate?
That you don't have to be an expert. Dallas CASA provides extensive training and support. What children need most is someone who cares, listens and shows up consistently. Volunteers come from all walks of life and professions. The common denominator is a willingness to make a difference.
Q: What would you say to someone considering it?
Do it! Don't talk yourself out of it. So many people think they aren't qualified or don't have enough time. The reality is that one caring adult can change the trajectory of a child's life. A child is waiting for someone to believe in them.
The Champion of Children Award Dinner is Thursday, October 15 at the Fairmont Dallas, honoring Larry Dolan, the first Dallas CASA advocate to reach thirty years of service. Tables and sponsorships at dallascasa.org.
"Preston Hollow is filled with individuals who care deeply about Dallas and are willing to step up when there's a need."