News Release
WARSAW — CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates) of Kosciusko County held their 23rd Annual Holiday Festival fundraising gala on Friday, November 8, 2024, which was an
incredible success.
Held at the Image Air Charter hangar, the evening brought together over 400 passionate supporters and 50 generous sponsors to create a night filled with 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 was transformed into an enchanting Emerald City, complete with characters from the movie, ruby slippers, and scenes that reminded everyone that courage, compassion, and a little bit of heart can change lives.
The gala featured a delicious dinner provided by 110 Craft Meatery, Cerulean, Noa Noa, the
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 night was emceed by Scott Greene and Laura Robertson. The premiere of a DreamOn Studio-produced video about CASA and the singing of “Somewhere Over the Rainbow” by local 9-year-old Kalli McCray kicked off the night that ended with a live auction offering one-of-a-kind items and experiences.
Guests had the opportunity to bid on the 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 critical to our work,” said CASA Executive Director Erin Rowland Jones, “as we raise over 60% of our annual budget at this one event each year.”
“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 attendees, we can continue to provide hope and a voice to vulnerable children navigating 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. & Mrs. Fred Rowland and 46 other local businesses and individuals who sponsored this event, the gala raised $300,000 to fund CASA’s critical work.
“This event can only happen with the support of our amazing sponsors and auction donors, as well as the hard work of our event planner Grace Whalen, CASA Program Manager Janelle Meyer, CASA staff members, CASA Board of Directors, and other volunteers and groups who helped plan this event as well as transform an empty airplane hangar into Oz.” commented Rowland Jones.
Each year, CASA of Kosciusko County serves children who have experienced abuse or neglect, ensuring they have a dedicated advocate by their side as they navigate the court system and seek safe, permanent homes. They are currently serving over 175 children and are in need of more volunteers to provide this vital work.
For more information about CASA of Kosciusko County and how you can get involved, visit
www.casachildren.com or contact Erin Rowland Jones at 574-372-2401.
About CASA of Kosciusko County CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates) of Kosciusko County is a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing advocacy and support for children in the foster care system. CASA volunteers are specially trained community members who work tirelessly to ensure that every child has a voice and the opportunity to thrive in a safe and loving home.
