Welcome to CASA on the Range, your source for updates, insights, and stories from Kansas CASA Association, Inc. that drive our mission forward.  Stay informed, stay inspired, and join us in making a difference.

This month, Kansas CASA Association, Inc. was honored to host a booth at the Kansas State Fair. It was an incredible opportunity to share CASA’s mission, connect with Kansans from across the state, and hear stories from those whose lives have been touched by CASA. We’ll be sharing more about our time at the fair later in this newsletter, but one story in particular has stayed with me, and I’d like to share it with you here.

A woman visited our booth and told me that when she was 16 years old and living in foster care, her CASA volunteer helped make it possible for her to safely reunite with her mother. Today, she is 41. With tears in her eyes, she shared that she lost her mom this past March, but she has never forgotten the difference her CASA made. Before leaving, she smiled and said, “I love hugs.” I gave her one, and in that moment, her gratitude was unmistakable.

Her story is a reminder that every child’s journey is different, but what never changes is CASA’s presence—listening, advocating, and walking alongside children when they need it most. The impact of CASA doesn’t end with childhood. It can last a lifetime.

With gratitude,

Deena Gage | State Director

We are proud to share our brand-new CASA video, created to highlight the powerful impact of advocacy in the lives of children in foster care. Thanks to a grant from the Kansas Department for Children and Families (DCF), we were able to capture the voices of two dedicated volunteers and a former CASA youth as they share what CASA truly means. This video is more than a story—it’s an invitation to see how one consistent adult can change everything. 

 If you’re inspired to help children in your community, find out how you can get involved.

We came. We connected. We made an impact. At the Kansas State Fair, Kansas CASA Association, Inc. had the privilege of meeting Kansans from across the state — and we have the stories to prove it.

Over the course of 10 days at the fair, we reached people in 102 of the 105 counties in Kansas. We met current and former CASA volunteers, children currently in foster care with a CASA, and young adults who once had CASA advocates. Many stopped by simply to thank us for the work we do, while others were hearing about CASA for the very first time.

It was heartwarming, exhausting, meaningful, rainy, muddy, and joyful — all at once. We are so proud that our booth was represented by the Kansas CASA Association, Inc. team and board members, alongside staff from local CASA programs across the state.

We were also fortunate to have KSDS Assistance Dogs, Inc. as our booth neighbor — two nonprofits side by side, both dedicated to helping people. And just like those sweet pups won our hearts, we’re happy to say CASA won a few dog fans of our own that week.

From rainy moments to meaningful connections — our time at the Kansas State Fair was unforgettable. Thank you to everyone who stopped by to learn about CASA and share your stories with us.

At the Kansas State Fair, Samantha Nickelson, Marketing and Program Support Specialist, and Deena Gage, State Director, both with Kansas CASA Association, Inc., had the opportunity to speak live on the radio. They shared CASA’s mission and the ongoing need for CASA volunteers — because every child deserves a voice in court.

Get ready — our first-ever Planting Seeds of Hope Online Charity Fundraiser & Auction is coming October 30 – November 4! ✨

This exciting online event will give people everywhere the chance to support Kansas CASA Association, Inc. and help change the story for children in foster care. We’re calling for sponsors and donation items to make it unforgettable! If you're interested in becoming a sponsor or donating an auction item, please reach out to Deena Gage at statedirector@kansascasa.org today!

Stay tuned to our website and social media for details — and join us in planting seeds of hope for kids across Kansas and beyond.

Kansas CASA Association, Inc. is honored to have the support of Golden Plains Credit Union and Capitol Federal as sponsors of our first-ever Planting Seeds of Hope: Online Charity Fundraiser and Auction. Their generosity helps make this event possible and ensures we can continue providing vital services to children in foster care across Kansas.

Thank you for planting seeds of hope with us and helping give every child a voice in court. Interested in becoming a sponsor? Contact Deena Gage at statedirector@kansascasa.org today.

Our Board of Directors plays a vital role in guiding the Kansas CASA Association’s mission. These dedicated individuals help shape our future, ensuring that we continue to provide meaningful support to CASA programs across the state. Click below to learn more about our board members and their commitment to children in need.

CASA is making a difference in communities large and small, rural and urban — and there are many ways to get involved. Whether you’re looking for a meaningful career in child advocacy or want to connect through upcoming events hosted by CASA programs, there’s a place for you.

🔹 Employment Opportunities: Explore open positions with CASA programs across Kansas.
🔹 Events Calendar: Discover trainings, fundraisers, and community events happening near you.

Visit our website to see the latest opportunities and join us in ensuring every child in foster care has a voice.

Every child deserves a champion in their corner. Your donation today can be the lifeline that transforms a child’s life. By giving, you help Kansas CASA Association, Inc. provide vital services and training to the local programs, enabling CASA volunteers to advocate for children who need a voice. Together, we can give hope, build futures, and ensure every child has the safety and love they deserve.

Have you checked out the Kansas CASA Shop lately? 

Every item you purchase helps raise awareness and supports the vital work happening in CASA programs across 63 Kansas counties. Whether you choose direct shipping or local pickup in Baldwin City, it’s easy to shop and make a difference.

🛍️ Visit the Kansas CASA Shop: https://www.kansascasa.org/give-shop/, place your order, and help spread the word!

📸 Don’t forget to snap a pic in your gear and tag us on social media—we love seeing our supporters represent CASA across the state!

Physical Address

2624 E Central Ave.

Wichita, KS 67214

Mailing Address

1310 Westloop Place Suite A #290

Manhattan, KS 66502