Dear Friend,

As an organization that advocates for the best interests of children year-round, National Children’s Month this month serves as a poignant reminder of our collective responsibility to nurture and protect the most vulnerable among us. It emphasizes the inherent rights of every child to grow up in a safe, supportive, and enriching environment. This observance invites us to engage deeply with the pressing issues affecting children and to champion their needs at every opportunity.

Throughout the year, CASA Lake County works tirelessly to provide a voice for children in the foster care system. Our dedicated volunteers serve as advocates, ensuring that the needs and wishes of each child are represented in court. This month, we celebrate the incredible work of our advocates and the positive changes they create in the lives of children.

November is a perfect time to consider how you can contribute to the well-being of children in our community. Here are a few ways you can help:

• Volunteer: We have 28 children on our waitlist. Join our team of advocates and make a direct impact in a child's life.
• Spread the Word: Share our mission with your network. Awareness is key to driving change.
• Donate: Your financial support allows us to continue our crucial work and reach more children in need.

As we celebrate National Children’s Month, we want to extend our heartfelt gratitude to all our volunteers, donors, and community partners. Your dedication makes a world of difference in the lives of children and families across Lake County. Together, let’s continue to advocate for a brighter future for every child.

Warm Regards,

We are so proud of Sanaii Williams, former CASA youth and our 2024 summer intern -- for recieving the prestigous 2024 Akerman Academic Excellence Scholarship. The Akerman Scholarship was established through an endowment created in 2015 as part of the firm’s landmark $1 million commitment to the National CASA/GAL Association. This endowment aims to alleviate the financial burdens faced by young adults who have spent part of their childhood in the foster care system. Recipients of this scholarship exemplify exceptional academic dedication and readiness for future success. Sanaii is the third CASA youth from our program to recieve this scholarship and we couldn't be more proud of her well-deserved achievement!

CASA Lake County received a $5,000 grant from the SBB Research Group Foundation, which awards monthly grants to support impactful and ambitious organizations solving unmet needs with thoughtful, long-term strategies. Thank you to the SBB Research Group Foundation for their generous support of our mission!

For the month of November, check out our display on the Ruth Fell Wander Community Art Wall in the First Bank of Highland Park. We are grateful to the bank for this opportunity to raise awareness about our work in the community of Highland Park!

A shout out and note of thanks also to Petersen Bros. Plastics for their donation of the signs for the display.

It's just around the corner...mark your calendar for #GivingTuesday next month on December 3rd and keep an eye out for future communications about how you can get involved!

Kudos for Some Amazing CASA Volunteers!

To CASA Danny for his dedication to his two CASA children on his newly acquired case. Both children are currently placed in residential facilities, as they both have severe autism. Danny took the time to consult with another CASA who was familiar with the children, as well as staff, to incorporate meaningful activities into visits, demonstrating a willingness to learn about these boys. Danny has already begun building rapport with both boys, and his enthusiasm regarding them is contagious. 

To CASAs Renee and Shel for their steadfast commitment to their four CASA children in three placements. They varied the locations of their visits in order to keep the attention of the three oldest children who are teens. Renee and Shel have displayed a great deal of patience, as they understand that, at times, teens tend to be non-communicative. They meet the children where they are emotionally during all visits. 

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