March 2019: News, Events, and Opportunities for CASA Volunteers 
 

Letter from CASA Executive Director Angela Rose  
 
Dear CASA Volunteers:
 
Just when you think it's almost spring, Colorado gives us the craziest blizzard in decades. I hope you all stayed warm and SAFE this week! 
 
As we look forward to warmer weather, CASA is excited to be winding down our "Every Child Served" Community Campaign. W ith  $296,851 left to raise, we hope to meet our goal by next month. One project that has supported this goal is the rainbow wall of hands in our office. Thanks to all who came out to place a handprint on the wall. If you did not get a chance to participate but would still like to, give me a call and we will set you up! 

Just a reminder that CASA is still looking for more than 50 new advocates before the close of this fiscal year. We rescheduled our "Dudes & Brews" event to April 3 because of this week's weather. In addition, we have two more volunteer information sessions coming up in the next couple of weeks - one on March 19 at the Cordera Community Center, and one on April 2 at our office. Please pass these events along to anyone you think would make a great CASA volunteer! 

Thank you all for your continued support of southern Colorado's children. If you need anything, please never hesitate to email me
 
Sincerely,
Angela 
 
Upcoming Trainings & Events for Volunteers  
 
Listed below are some upcoming events you might be interested in. Full details are available by clicking the links below or by visiting the CASA event calendar.  

April 8: Spring/Easter Shop Opens  
April 11: Light of Hope  
 
 
Milton Foster Children's Fund
HAPPENINGS
  • Art Class
  • Teen Job Readiness
  • Cooking Class
  • Tutoring Opportunities
  • Foster Girl Makeover & Photo Day
  • Guitar Lessons
  • Youth & Teen Job Fair
Click here to learn more about teen events.  
Messaging Contest: You could win this CASA shirt! 

The words and stories of our existing volunteers are what get new volunteers through the door. So what better way to collect your stories than through a messaging contest?

In 150 words or less, tell us WHY you are a CASA volunteer. There are no other rules. We want to know why YOU do this work. On April 12, we'll put all the entries in a hat and draw three  winners to receive a CASA shirt.

By entering, you agree to allow CASA to use your words and name in both online and print marketing. Email your entries with "messaging contest" in the subject to kerik@casappr.org.

Hop on by to choose Spring/Easter gifts for your child! 
   
It looks like the Easter Bunny dropped by CASA while we were out. How else can all of the pajamas, blankets, stuffed animals, books, and new clothing items be explained? We will be setting up a Spring and Easter shop outside the Kids' Closet to be open April 8-12 during normal office hours. You may choose three items from the shop for the children on your cases. Please check with caregivers to find out correct sizes. As usual, these gifts are not from CASA but are to be given to the adults in the home to disperse.
Coming Soon: New CASA Ambassador Program!

CASA is excited to announce that we are in the early stages of developing a new Ambassador Program with the goal of increasing organizational awareness in the Pikes Peak Region.

A team of CASA Ambassadors, comprised of passionate volunteers and staff members, will be armed with the tools and knowledge needed to represent CASA at speaking engagements and table top events in their own neighborhoods and communities.

We are taking referrals for the CASA Ambassador Team now. If you would like to be a part of the team, or if you would like to nominate another CASA volunteer to be a part of the team, please contact Uriko Stout at urikos@casappr.org.
Crystal Erickson named CASA Director of Programs 

CASA is thrilled to announce that our former D&N Program Manager, Crystal Erickson, will be returning to CASA as the new Director of Programs.

As many CASA volunteers already know, Crystal's previous record in the D&N department is spectacular. She also brings a wealth of knowledge from other child welfare positions she has held over the years.

Crystal starts in her new position on Monday, March 18. Feel free to drop by and welcome her back!

Save the Date: Light of Hope is on April 11, 2019!  

CASA's 19th Annual Light of Hope fundraiser will return to the Antlers Hotel Ballroom on April 11 for a breakfast and lunch program.  
 
This is a great opportunity to share your love for your work at CASA with those in your life who also have a heart for children.  
 
The event is free to attend and an ask for donations is made from the stage so guests can give a gift from their heart.  
 
Please see more information here, or contact Jill Cheetham to host a table, reserve your spot, or inquire about sponsorships.   
Help your CASA child experience summer camp!  
   
Camps fill up quickly so if your CASA child would like to attend a summer camp, please identify a camp and apply to MFCF for funding as soon as possible. To qualify for MFCF funding, you must have an open D&N case through El Paso or Teller County, not live with biological mom and/or dad, and not have received MFCF funds in the past year. Camp Shady Brook only has one session with spots left! A small list of local camps can be found here.

43rd Annual Foster Children's Festival at North Pole 
   
Back again this summer for the 43rd year is the Annual Foster Children's Festival at the North Pole! This year, it is Saturday, June 1, from 10 AM - 5 PM. Registration is required and the form is available here. Check-in closes at 1 PM and all attendees must be present by that time.
NEEDED: New Children's Clothing & Algebra Tutor  
   
CASA is looking for volunteers to tutor children in foster care. We specifically need someone who can tutor in the subject of algebra. If you're qualified and interested, please contact Jill Cheetham at jillc@casappr.org.

We also are in need of clothing for the Kids' Closet. All donations of children's clothing must be new and we specifically need girl outfits in 12 month, 24 month, and 6-8; and boy outfits in 3T and 5. These donations can be dropped off at the CASA office during normal business hours.