Kansas CASA January Newsletter: Making an Impact Together

See how CASA is impacting foster care children across Kansas.

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

As the new year unfolds, it brings a fresh opportunity to reflect and take action. Many of us are setting intentions to grow, give back, and make our communities stronger. At Kansas CASA, we believe there’s no better time to commit to making a lasting impact in the lives of children who need it most.

Across Kansas, there are thousands of children in foster care who deserve a voice—someone to stand up for their best interests in court. This is where CASA volunteers step in, providing the advocacy and support that can change the course of a child’s life. Last year, Kansas CASA volunteers helped over 1,000 children find hope and stability, but there are still many more waiting for someone to champion their future.

Becoming a CASA volunteer is an extraordinary way to give back. With comprehensive training and ongoing support, volunteers are equipped to make a real difference—whether it’s advocating for a child’s needs in court or simply being a consistent presence in their life. No matter how much time you have to give, your commitment can help a child find the stability and permanency they deserve.

This January, consider how you can be part of this life-changing work. By stepping forward as a CASA volunteer, you’ll be helping ensure a Kansas child in foster care who has experienced abuse and neglect has a chance to thrive. Together, we can make 2025 a year of hope, action, and transformation.

Take the first step today by visiting www.kansascasa.org. Let’s come together to create a brighter future for Kansas’s children—because every child deserves someone in their corner.

Thank you for being part of this important mission.

Deena Gage
State Director, Kansas CASA Association

Kansas CASA Association is now a team of three! We are excited to introduce Samantha Nickelson as our new Marketing & Program Support Specialist! Samantha brings a unique blend of professional expertise and personal passion for CASA’s mission to her role.

With a Master’s degree from Fort Hays State University and over a decade of digital marketing experience, Samantha has a proven track record in outreach and communications. Her previous roles include serving as the Outreach Coordinator for KCA and the Marketing Director for Orion Education.

Samantha’s connection to CASA began in 2014, when she became a CASA Advocate—a role she held for four years. Her time as an advocate ignited a lifelong passion for helping Kansas children in need, and she is excited to raise awareness and support for CASA programs across the state.

We’re thrilled to have Samantha on board as we continue to make a difference from rural to urban communities across Kansas. Welcome, Samantha!

Want to learn more about the CASA Core Model? Watch this video to learn how our advocates help children who have experience abuse and neglect.

Are you ready to make a difference and change a child's story?

Kansas CASA Association is proud to recognize our State Trainer, Kristin Hines, for her recent nomination and election as Chair-Elect of the Citizen Review Panel—Intake to Petition/Children's Justice Act Task Force. This panel plays a critical role in strengthening the child welfare system by reviewing policies, procedures, and practices from intake to petition. It ensures the consumer voice is central to evaluating system effectiveness and identifying areas for improvement.

Kristin’s leadership in this role highlights CASA’s active engagement in advancing the welfare of children across Kansas. Her dedication and expertise will undoubtedly contribute to a more effective and equitable child protection system, reinforcing our mission to advocate for the best interests of children in need.

Deena Gage attended a corporate luncheon hosted by Pete’s of Erie, Inc. in Parsons, KS, celebrating the success of their 13th annual 3-State CASA Fundraiser. Pete’s 57 locations raised $100,000 through pledge cards and community events to benefit six CASA programs across Kansas, Oklahoma, and Missouri. CASA is deeply grateful for Pete’s support and dedication to advocating for children in foster care.

On December 7th, CASA of Cowley County hosted their annual "Cheers to CASA" fundraising event in Winfield, KS. Sate Director, Deena Gage, was able to attend and is pictured with MaKayla Shields, the Executive Director of CASA of Cowley County. The event was a huge success and offered a live auction, silent auction, speakers, and dinner.

On December 8th, CASA of the High Plains, Inc. held its end-of-year meeting in Hays, KS. Deena Gage shared about CASA’s statewide impact and shared the important work our CASA programs do every day. Pictured: Deena Gage with Jan Johnson, Executive Director of CASA of the High Plains, Inc.

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.

Check out the Kansas CASA Shop to discover exclusive designs that highlight our mission of advocating for children in the foster care system.

Every purchase helps spread awareness and supports the critical work we do across Kansas. You can choose direct shipping or pick up your order in Baldwin City, KS—whatever works best for you!

Shop now and make an impact! Don’t forget to snap a picture wearing your new shirt and tag us on social media—we’d love to see how you’re representing Kansas CASA!

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 provide vital services and training to our 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.