A Season of Gratitude: Thank You for Your Unwavering Support


Dear Friends and Supporters,


As the Thanksgiving season approaches, our team's hearts are filled with gratitude. This is a time for reflection, for counting our blessings, and for acknowledging the incredible community that makes our work possible. On behalf of everyone at CASA of Placer, Yuba & Sutter, we want to extend our deepest thanks to you—our dedicated volunteers, donors, and steadfast supporters.


This past year, your generosity has been a powerful force for good in our community. Your contributions have transformed lives, offered hope, and provided essential support to those who need it most. Because of you, we have been able to serve 480 youth who are in foster care or at risk of being trafficked. We've supported 446 volunteers as they served as a lifeline to the youth and at-risk families we serve.


It’s your support that allows us to witness incredible stories of resilience and renewal.


Every donation, every hour volunteered, and every word of encouragement creates a ripple effect of positive change that strengthens our entire community.


As you gather with your loved ones this Thanksgiving, we hope you feel a deep sense of pride in the impact you have made. You are at the very heart of our mission.


We wish you and your family a warm, joyful, and peaceful Thanksgiving. We are profoundly grateful for your partnership and look forward to continuing this vital work together.


With heartfelt thanks,

Amy Sugimoto

Executive Director


For more stories of impact click HERE.

Celebrating Our CASA Volunteers


Our volunteers are the heart and soul of everything we do. Each year, we celebrate their incredible dedication and hard work at our annual Harvest Feast. 


We'd love for you to join us in Roseville or Yuba City for an evening dedicated to you!


Enjoy a delicious traditional harvest dinner, share laughter, play games, connect with fellow advocates, and receive our heartfelt appreciation for the amazing impact you make every single day. 


If you're an active CASA and would like to join us at one of our special events honoring you, please RSVP below. 

Yuba–Sutter Volunteers

Boyd Hall, 970 Klamath Ln, Yuba City

Thursday, November 6 | 5:00–7:00 PM

➡️Click here to RSVP for Yuba–Sutter


Placer Volunteers

Roseville Office, 1430 Blue Oaks Blvd, Suite 260

Thursday, November 13 | 5:30–7:30 PM

➡️Click here to RSVP for Placer


Volunteer Spotlight

Honoring CASA Karen Freeman


Karen Freeman may be one of our newer volunteers, but in just over a month, she’s already making a profound impact in the life of the young person she serves. After completing CASA training over the summer, Karen was assigned to a case the department identified as high priority—a 14-year-old boy who has endured a lifetime of instability and loss.


His story is one of resilience in the face of unimaginable challenges. His case first opened in 2013 when he was just three years old and closed a year later after being placed with his paternal grandmother. Sadly, two years ago, his grandmother passed away. Since then, he’s been largely on his own—living intermittently with his father, experiencing homelessness, and surviving without consistent care or support. When his father was arrested and incarcerated earlier this year, the case reopened—and that’s when Karen stepped in.


In the short time since being matched on September 17, 2025, Karen has provided the most comprehensive insight into this young man’s needs that the department has had in years. Despite his deep mistrust of adults and systems, Karen has managed to build a genuine connection with him—something no other adult has been able to do.


Through patience and empathy, she’s helped him begin to re-engage in school, convincing him to attend even just for his favorite classes, P.E. and Ceramics—an incredible step for someone who has rarely attended in the past. Karen also opened communication with his school counselor to establish safety protocols to prevent him from leaving campus during the day. She reached out to the Placer County Office of Education’s Foster Youth Liaison to advocate for stronger support, which prompted a special meeting to address his feelings of disconnection and ensure he has adults in his life he can count on.


All of this progress has happened in just 30 days. Karen’s story is a powerful reminder of what can happen when one caring, consistent adult shows up for a young person who has learned not to expect anyone to stay. Her compassion, persistence, and advocacy are helping pave a new path forward for a young man who deserves stability, belonging, and hope.


Thank you, Karen, for showing what it means to be a CASA—and for reminding us that connection truly changes everything.

Brighten the Season for Local Foster Youth


The holiday season is a time of giving, connection, and joy — and at CASA of Placer, Yuba & Sutter, we’re making sure every child and teen we serve feels remembered and valued this year.


While our littlest ones light up over toys and games, our teens often wish for choice and independence. A simple gift card gives them the power to pick out something they truly want — whether it’s a new hoodie, makeup, or a movie night with friends.


Help us reach our goal of 105 gift cards for local foster teens. It’s a small act that makes a big impact — creating moments of normalcy, joy, and empowerment for the teens we serve.


Here’s how you can help:


  • Purchase a gift card through our Wish List.
  • Share our goal with friends and family to help us reach 105 gift cards by December 15.


More Ways to Spread Holiday Cheer


Holiday Toy Shop: December 15–19 | 8 AM–4 PM

CASA Shopping Day--stop by our CASA Holiday Store to pick out a toy for your CASA child — or bring them along to choose their own! The Toy Shop will be filled with gifts for all ages, ensuring every child has something special waiting for them this holiday season.


Santa Night: December 18 | 4–7 PM

Bring your youth for an evening of holiday magic — meet Santa, sip hot chocolate, decorate cookies, and make a festive craft together.


Together, we can make the holidays brighter for every child, teen, and family we serve. Because when a young person feels seen, supported, and celebrated, they feel loved.

November Continuing Education


1. Trauma-Informed and Responsive Practices that Reduce Stress and Promote Healing and Resilience


Join us for an in-depth training on trauma-responsive strategies presented by Julie Kurtz, an international speaker, trainer, coach, and consultant.


This session will explore the neurobiology of toxic stress and trauma, its impact on youth and adults, and introduce the science of hope, healing, and resilience. Participants will learn to recognize the difference between a typical challenging behavior and a trauma trigger, and gain tools to support regulation and healing.


Rooted in the tenets of trauma-informed care and current neuroscience, this training offers practical, strength-based strategies to build resilience, reduce stress, and foster environments that promote health and connection—for both children and adults.


Tuesday, November 4, 2025 | 9:30 AM – 12:30 PM

Roseville Office, 1430 Blue Oaks Blvd, Suite 260


2. The Mind & Brain in Developmental Context


The Mind & Brain in Developmental Context explores how children’s brains grow, adapt, and respond to their environments. This session examines the dynamic relationship between brain development, behavior, and learning — offering practical insights into how early experiences, relationships, and trauma shape a child’s cognitive and emotional growth.


Participants will gain strategies to support healthy brain development and resilience across different stages of childhood and adolescence.


Wednesday, November 12, 2025 | 9:30 AM 12:30 PM

AB 741 Strengthens Protections for Children in Foster Care

Governor Gavin Newsom recently signed California Assembly Bill 741 into law—adding an important new layer of protection for children and teens in foster care across the state.


While CASA volunteers and staff have always undergone rigorous background checks, this new legislation makes the process even stronger by introducing continuous monitoring through the Child Abuse Central Index. This means that local CASA programs will now be notified immediately if a concern arises, ensuring a faster and more effective response to safeguard youth.


We extend our gratitude to Assemblymember Rhodesia Ransom and all who championed this bill. Together, we’re helping make CASA programs—and the children we serve—safer than ever.

Change a Child's Story


Right now, local children and youth are waiting for a CASA advocate to stand by their side.


These children deserve someone to speak up for them—someone who will ensure they feel safe, seen, and supported.


  • 65 in Placer county
  • 165 in Yuba county
  • 146 in Sutter county - coming soon


Email volunteer@casaconnects.org or click HERE to get started.

Upcoming Volunteer Training


Ready to become a CASA in the new year?Our Fast-Track Saturday Training offers a convenient, accelerated path to becoming a CASA.


Training Dates:

• Saturday, January 24 | 9 AM – 3:30 PM

• Saturday, January 31 | 9 AM – 3:30 PM

• Graduation: February 4 | 8 AM – 1 PM


Through a combination of interactive sessions, hands-on activities, and expert-led discussions, you’ll learn how to advocate for the best interests of children and youth in foster care.


If you’ve ever thought about becoming a CASA, there’s no better time to take the first step.


Click HERE to start the process and HERE for our 2026 training schedule.

Volunteer Resource: Free & Low-Cost Activities

Looking for budget-friendly ways in Placer County to connect with your CASA youth or family in November?


Click HERE for some simple ideas.

Giving Tuesday: A Day to Connect for a Cause

Tuesday, December 2, 2025


The season of giving is almost here, and so is one of the most powerful days of the year for nonprofits across the globe — Giving Tuesday, coming up on December 2.


This worldwide day of generosity is about more than donations — it’s about connection. When you give to CASA of Placer, Yuba & Sutter, you’re helping children in foster care find stability, families rebuild trust, and youth discover confidence and hope for the future.


Throughout November, we’ll be sharing stories of how connection changes everything — stories of CASA volunteers, parents, and youth whose lives have been transformed through your support.


Your generosity on Giving Tuesday will help us:

  • Recruit, train, and support new CASA volunteers for local children in foster care
  • Empower families through mentoring and resource connection
  • Provide opportunities that help youth build skills and independence


Together, we can ensure every child has someone by their side who believes in them.


Mark your calendar for December 2 and join us in celebrating the power of connection this Giving Tuesday. Early giving begins November 25.

How You Can Help



Become a Champion for Change

For just $20 a month—less than the cost of a cup of coffee—you can help transform lives. Your ongoing support fuels resources for foster children, at-risk youth, and families.

Sign Up to Give Today ▶


Make a Donation

Every dollar makes an impact. Your gift helps CASA of Placer, Yuba, and Sutter continue vital work for foster children, at-risk youth, and families in crisis.

Donate Now ▶


Create Your Own Fundraiser

From BBQs to birthday parties, your creativity can inspire generosity. Gather friends, family, or colleagues and make a lasting impact.

Send us an email ▶


Leave a Legacy

Include CASA in your will or trust to create a brighter future for children for generations to come.

Send us an email ▶


Big Day of Giving

Be part of one of the region’s most impactful fundraisers. Rally your network and give back where it matters most.

How to Get Involved ▶

Other Ways to Give


Donor Advised Fund: This is a powerful opportunity to create lasting change for foster children, at-risk youth, and families in crisis in our community. CLICK HERE to learn more.


Planned Giving: Leave a lasting legacy by including CASA in your estate plans.


Vehicle Donations: Donate a car, truck,

or RV—fast, easy, tax-deductible.


Matching Gifts: Many employers match donations—double your impact!


Interested? Email katja@casaconnects.org


What We Do

Every program is built on one belief: connection changes lives.


CASA - Become a Voice for a Child in Crisis


At CASA of Placer, Yuba, and Sutter, our Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASAs) stand up for children who have experienced abuse, neglect, abandonment, or are at risk of entering the foster care system. These youth often face instability and uncertainty, and without a dedicated advocate, they can become lost in the Juvenile Dependency or Delinquency Court systems.


For more information, click HERE


Be Bold - A Pathway to Courage, Connection, and Growth


Be Bold empowers youth to make safer, healthier decisions through consistent mentorship, connection, and support. We pair each young person with a trained Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA)—a caring, trusted adult who becomes a mentor, advocate, and steady presence in their life.


Together, they meet weekly to develop life skills, boost confidence, and promote growth. Every other month, youth and their mentors also come together for group sessions focusing on community, resilience, and positive peer connection.


For more information, click HERE


Family Services - Strengthening Families, Restoring Futures


We believe in the power of prevention—and that with the proper support, families can stay together, grow stronger, and build lasting stability for their children. Our Family Services program supports parents in crisis, as well as kinship caregivers who step in to care for children and prevent the need for foster care placement.


Through compassionate mentorship, practical guidance, and access to community-based resources, we help families build resilience, strengthen protective factors, and work toward long-term success and reunification whenever possible.


For more information, click HERE


K9s 4 Kids - Comfort, Connection, and Canine Companionship


Our K9s 4 Kids therapy dogs bring comfort, calm, and smiles to children and teens who have experienced trauma. Whether it’s a wagging tail at court or a quiet cuddle during a visit, these dogs remind kids that they’re safe, seen, and loved.


For more information, click HERE


CASA Store - Supporting Foster Youth and Families in Need


The CASA Store offers a wide range of items, including backpacks, school supplies, clothing, hygiene products, and toys. These items are more than just material goods—they represent hope, stability, and care. By providing these necessities, the store helps children feel prepared for school, confident in their daily lives, and supported during difficult times.


CASAs (Court Appointed Special Advocates) are encouraged to visit the CASA Store to select the items most needed by the children they advocate for. Whether it’s equipping a child with everything they need for a new school year, replacing worn-out clothing, or adding a spark of joy with a special toy, the CASA Store is here to make a meaningful difference.


The impact of the CASA Store extends far beyond the items on its shelves. It provides reassurance to foster youth and families that they are not alone and that their community cares deeply about their well-being. This simple but powerful support helps restore confidence and stability for children navigating uncertain circumstances.


For more information, click HERE

The People Behind the Mission

Our team is united by a shared commitment to advocacy, connection, and empowerment.


Amy Sugimoto – Executive Director

Taylor Baierlein – Youth Services Director

Katja Pollmann – Community Engagement Director

Kristi Varnum – Family Services Director

Erin Anthony – Marketing Manager

Julia Boal- Special Events Manager

Dana Loschiavo – Volunteer Engagement Manager

Ariel Neff – CASA Program Manager

Stacy Sewell – Training Manager

April Williams – CASA Operations Manager

Flor Castellanos – CASA Case Manager

Hannah Clyde – Kinship Allies Case Manager

Preston Doyle – Be Bold Case Manager

Aaron Fernandez – Office Administrator

Rhonda Logar – CASA Case Manager

Faith Lyles – CASA Program Supervisor

Heather Manley – CASA Case Manager

Tanya Mark – Family Services Case Manager

De Anna Martin – PEG Case Manager / Support Group Supervisor

Cynthia Matthews – Be Bold Case Manager

Lauren Muhoberac – Be Bold Case Manager

Selena Owen – Family Mentor Program Supervisor

Katie Rineer – CASA Case Manager

Julie Stark – Executive Assistant

Jessica Strawn – PEG Case Manager Assistant

Kara Wilson – Volunteer Engagement Coordinator

Thank You to Our Community Champions

Celebrating the businesses that help power our mission.

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