Court Appointed Special Advocates of Kosciusko County held their 23rd annual holiday festival fundraising gala Nov. 8 at the Image Air Charter hangar and had over 400 supporters and 50 sponsors.
This year’s theme, “There’s No Place Like Hope,” transported guests to the world of “The Wizard of Oz.” The hangar was transformed into the Emerald City, complete with characters from the movie.
The gala featured a dinner provided by 110 Craft Meatery, Cerulean, Noa Noa, the Owl’s Nest, Rock Steady, Generous Coffee and The Cake Lady. The bar was provided by Downtown Eatery and Spirits. Wine on the table was provided by Service Liquors while water was provided by Rabb Water Systems. The night was emceed by Scott Greene and Laura Robertson.
The premiere of a DreamOn Studio-produced cinematic video about CASA and the singing of “Somewhere Over the Rainbow” by local 9-year-old Kalli McCray kicked off the night that ended with a live auction.
Guests had the opportunity to bid on the live auction items as well as over 50 silent auction items with all proceeds directly supporting CASA’s mission to recruit, train and support community volunteers as they advocate for the best interests of abused and neglected children.
“This event is critical to our work,” said CASA Executive Director Erin Rowland Jones, “as we raise over 60% of our annual budget at this one event each year.
“The success of this event is a testament to the unwavering commitment of our community,” she said. “Thanks to the generosity of our sponsors, donors and attendees, we can continue to provide hope and a voice to vulnerable children navigating the challenges of the foster care system.”
With the support of this year’s Ruby sponsors: Bowen Health, Core Mechanical Services, D & D Electric, Downtown Eatery & Spirits, Silveus Insurance Group and Mr. and Mrs. Fred Rowland and 46 other local businesses and individuals who sponsored this event, the gala raised $300,000 to fund CASA’s work.
“This event can only happen with the support of our amazing sponsors and auction donors, as well as the hard work of our event planner Grace Whalen, CASA Program Manager Janelle Meyer, CASA staff members, CASA Board of Directors, and other volunteers and groups who helped plan this event as well as transform an empty airplane hangar into Oz,” said Rowland Jones.
Each year, CASA of Kosciusko County serves children who have experienced abuse or neglect, ensuring they have a dedicated advocate by their side as they navigate the court system and seek safe, permanent homes. They are currently serving over 175 children and are in need of more volunteers to provide this work.
For more information, visit www.casachildren.com or contact Rowland Jones at 574-372-2401.