Dear Kristin,
This holiday season, I want you to know how deeply grateful everyone at CASA of Brown County is for your unwavering support. You make our success possible and inspire our work every day. I am excited to share some of our accomplishments in 2023 as we gear up to celebrate our 20th anniversary in 2024!
As of the end of November, 128 caring CASA volunteers advocated for the best interests and changing needs of 221 children and youth under court protection right here in Brown County. With their CASA volunteer alongside them, 69 of these children have found safe and permanent homes.
Our Fostering Futures program for youth ages 11 to 18 that helps prepare them as they age out from living in foster care to independence saw record growth with 41 participants. Programming focuses on year-round academic, employment and independent living support and activities for youth with their CASA volunteer by their side.
In June, we expanded our Fostering Futures program to include a transition aged youth (TAY) pilot program for former CASA youth/young adults whose court protection case has closed, and they have transitioned from living in foster care. The goal for the TAY Program is to empower young adults ages 18 to 21 to thrive and become self-sufficient through a continued relationship with their CASA volunteer, who now serves in a mentorship role assisted by CASA staff. This pilot program grew from 2 young adults to 6 during 2023. We look forward to sharing updates with you on this critical program.
We simply can’t thank you enough for your strong faith in our mission. Wishing you and yours a wonderful holiday season and all the best in the new year!
With gratitude,
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