Over the past two months, I’ve had the privilege of participating in two powerful gatherings that reinforced something we know to be true: meaningful change for children and families happens when we work together.
At our annual Leadership Roundtable, representatives from 43 local CASA programs came together to learn, share ideas, and strengthen their leadership. Throughout the day, conversations centered on clarity, alignment, and commitment — three principles that help organizations navigate complexity while remaining focused on what matters most: improving outcomes for children impacted by the child welfare system in Texas. Leaders exchanged promising practices, explored challenges facing volunteer engagement, and reflected on how stronger partnerships across local programs and stakeholders in the child welfare system can create greater impact.
That spirit of collaboration continued during our From Involvement to Partnership luncheon, which brought together leaders from CASA programs, Community-Based Care providers, Texas Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS), and Texas CASA. More than 30 leaders participated in open and honest discussions about family engagement and the future of child welfare in Texas. One participant captured the importance of this work perfectly: “Families experience the system as one system. They feel every gap between us. Partnership requires shared responsibility, not just shared goals.”
Check out pictures from the event and read my full article below.
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One Week Until Registration Opens for the 2026 Texas CASA Conference
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Registration opens July 8th for the 2026 Texas CASA Conference: Advocacy in Motion! Join CASA staff, volunteers, board members, and child welfare partners from across the state for three days of learning, collaboration, and inspiration.
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🗓️ September 9 – 11, 2026
📍 Embassy Suites by Hilton San Marcos Hotel Conference Center
💰 Registration: $400 (opens July 8; closes August 12)
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We're excited to introduce this year's full lineup of workshop presenters and conference speakers! Explore sessions designed to strengthen advocacy, build skills, and share innovative approaches to supporting children and families. Workshops are available on a first-come, first-served basis, so now is the perfect time to review the offerings and plan your conference experience before registration opens.
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Exhibitor and Sponsorship Opportunities
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Know an organization that would like to connect with child welfare professionals from across Texas? Exhibitor registration is now open, and conference sponsorship opportunities are also available, with packages starting at $1,000.
For the most up-to-date information, visit our conference event page. See you in San Marcos for an event you won't forget!
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Spill the TEA Brings Program Directors Together for Learning, Connection, and Leadership Growth
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Texas CASA recently welcomed 17 Program Directors from local CASA programs across Texas to our Austin office for our biannual Spill the TEA: Train, Engage, and Get Assistance gathering. Led by Learning and Development Manager Margaret Halpin, the event brought together leaders from across the state to strengthen leadership skills, share ideas, and build connections with peers who understand the unique opportunities and challenges of leading local CASA programs.
One highlight of the day was a hands-on team-building challenge where participants worked together to build the tallest tower while adapting to unexpected changes along the way. The activity reflected the realities Program Directors face every day — balancing results, relationships, and changing priorities. Gatherings like Spill the TEA continue to strengthen the statewide CASA network by creating opportunities for local leaders to learn from one another and return to their communities inspired and better equipped to serve children and families.
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Local Program Spotlight: CASA of Williamson County
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For the past 10 years, Michael has been a steady source of support for children experiencing foster care through his volunteer service with CASA of Williamson County. Across five cases and ten children, his commitment has remained the same: showing up consistently, building trust, and being a dependable advocate through every transition.
Michael's story is a powerful reminder that lasting impact often comes from simply being present. His decade of service reflects the heart of CASA advocacy and the difference one dedicated volunteer can make in the life of a child.
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Staff Spotlight: Laura Sanchez, Fund Development Specialist
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This month, we're introducing Laura, Texas CASA's Fund Development Specialist, whose journey from Social Media Intern to the Fund Development team reflects her passion for connecting people to the CASA mission. In our latest Staff Spotlight, Laura shares what inspired her to work in child welfare, how storytelling and community service shape her approach, and why building relationships with supporters is one of the most rewarding parts of her role.
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Thank You Southwest Airlines for Supporting the CASA Mission!
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Southwest Airlines continues to make a meaningful difference for children in foster care by providing flight vouchers that help local CASA programs travel to visit children placed far from home. Last year alone, Southwest's support helped advocates travel more than 90,000 miles, making it possible to maintain the trusted relationships that are at the heart of effective advocacy.
One recent visit by a CASA of the South Plains volunteer illustrates this impact. After months of virtual visits, the children waited excitedly on the front lawn for their advocate to arrive, eager to spend time together. The visit not only brought joy and stability to the children, but also gave the volunteer valuable insight into barriers facing the children's caregiver.
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Take Our Anonymous Survey Today: Help Shape How We Connect With You!
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Your support makes our work possible, and we'd love to hear from you. To help us better understand how we're doing in stewarding your generosity and sharing information about Texas CASA, we invite you to complete a brief anonymous survey. Your feedback will help us improve how we show those that give and support us our appreciation and ensure we're providing the updates that matter most to you.
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Additional Information of Interest |
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New CASA on the Go Podcast: Countering Adversity Through Connection with CFE Coach Frances Lofley
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Visit Your Local Heart Gallery for Information About Children Waiting for Adoption in Your Region
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| Local Musicians Needed for Mentorship Program with Kids in Texas Foster Care
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If you suspect a child is being abused or neglected, ACT. Call 800-252-5400 or go to txabusehotline.org
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🛎️ Monthly Giving Tip
Honor someone special! Gifts to Texas CASA can be a meaningful way to commemorate a loved one or to celebrate a personal milestone while making a difference to children and families in foster care.
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