EUGENE — Over the sounds of silverware meeting plates and eager applause, Sen. Ron Wyden and Rep. Val Hoyle took the stage at CASA Lane County’s Voices for Kids Luncheon on Oct. 16 in front of nearly 300 people.
The free event aimed to inspire prospective volunteers to get involved with CASA, spotlighting the organization’s commitment to increasing community visibility and funding to support children in need in Lane County.
“Foster kids are 2.5% more likely to end up in prison, and less than 3% of foster children end up graduating from college, so it’s significantly less than any other population,” Hoyle said. “But right here in this room, you all are making a difference in the lives of every single child you touch.”
CASA Lane County recently launched its “Deepening Our Roots” campaign. Designed to strengthen relationships with service organizations, businesses, and individuals in the community, the campaign aims to establish long-term business partners.
For participating businesses, this could involve sponsoring events, holding annual CASA presentations with employees, or putting on third-party events with raised funds going to CASA.
CASA’s goal is 15 participating businesses. After the luncheon, 10 expressed interest, and 39 individuals sought additional information.
Founded in 1977 by Judge David W. Soukup, CASA, or Court Appointed Special Advocates, seeks to champion children navigating the foster system in the courtroom and their daily lives. From birth parents to teachers, attorneys to medical professionals, CASA volunteers conduct meaningful conversations with individuals in the child’s life to determine informed next steps that will lead to a positive, secure home.
Kendra Jones, executive director of CASA, was drawn to the organization due to experiences in her youth. To find a sense of healing from an abusive childhood and familial violence, Jones has spent over 20 years working in housing initiatives, child abuse prevention, and healthy youth development.
“These are generational cycles. It was a generational cycle in my family, and with my generation, we have stopped that cycle,” Jones said. “CASAs stand in the gap for kids. Research shows that if a child has at least one trusted adult in their life, it’s a safety net that creates resilience, and it can make a huge impact in helping overcome trauma.”
Hoyle said that funding for CASA has faced hurdles in recent years due to the fluctuating budget from the Victims of Crime Act.
Since 1984, CASA funding has been derived from federal case convictions rather than tax dollars.
Hoyle and Wyden said replenishing that fund is a top priority.
“These kids are facing real challenges. PTSD twice the rate of veterans. Say that to yourself: ‘PTSD twice the rate of veterans,’” Wyden said.
