A group of Lake City Bank attendees as well as characters from The Wizard of Oz. Photo provided by CASA.

Press release

WARSAW — Kosciusko County Court Appointed Special Advocates held their 23rd annual Holiday Festival fundraising gala Friday, Nov. 8, which was considered a success. Organized at the Image Air Charter hangar, the evening brought together more than 400 supporters and 50 sponsors to create an evening full of magic and meaning.

This year’s theme, “There’s No Place Like Hope,” transported guests to the whimsical world of The Wizard of Oz. The hangar has been transformed into Emerald City, complete with characters from the film, ruby ​​slippers and scenes that remind everyone that courage, compassion and a little heart can change lives.

The gala included dinner hosted by 110 Craft Meatery, Cerulean, Noa Noa, Owl’s Nest, Rock Steady, Generous Coffee and The Cake Lady. The bar was provided by Downtown Eatery and Spirits. Wine on the table by Service Liquors while water was provided by Rabb Water Systems. The evening was hosted by Scott Greene and Laura Robertson.

The premiere of a cinematic video produced by DreamOn Studio on CASA and the singing of “Somewhere Over the Rainbow” by 9-year-old Kalli McCray kicked off the evening which concluded with an auction live offering unique objects and experiences.

Guests had the opportunity to bid on 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 essential to our work,” said Erin Rowland Jones, CASA Executive Director, “as we raise over 60% of our annual budget from this event every year. »

Dana Huffer, CASA Holiday Festival committee member, and Grace Whalen, event planner. Photo provided by CASA.

“The success of this event is a testament to the unwavering commitment of our community,” said Rowland Jones. “Thanks to the generosity of our sponsors, donors and participants, we can continue to provide hope and a voice to vulnerable children facing 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 the vital work of ACSA

“This event can only happen with the support of our incredible sponsors and auction donors, as well as the hard work of our Event Planner Grace Whalen, CASA Program Manager Janelle Meyer, CASA staff members , the CASA Board of Directors and other volunteers and groups. who helped plan this event and transform an empty airplane hangar into Oz. » commented Rowland Jones.

Each year, CASA of Kosciusko County serves children who have been victims of abuse or neglect, ensuring that they have a dedicated advocate by their side as they navigate the justice system and seek a safe and secure home. permanent. They currently care for over 175 children and need more volunteers to carry out this vital work.

For more information about CASA of Kosciusko County and how you can get involved, visit casachildren.com or contact Erin Rowland Jones at (574) 372-2401.

Guests enjoy CASA’s annual holiday festival while being transported into the whimsical world of “The Wizard of Oz.” Photo provided by CASA.