Fundraiser scheduled Friday for local CASA chapter

The Bourbon County Court Appointed Special Advocates agency will hold its annual summer fundraiser from 7 to 9 p.m. Friday at the home of program director Christa Horn and her husband, John, 2096 Justice Lane.

The sixth annual event, titled "I am for the Child," is important as the CASA organization relies heavily on donations from the community to operate, Christa said. She added this is the organization's single fundraiser of the year.

"Without the community backing and supporting it through their time and financially, it (CASA) wouldn't exist," she said.

The fundraiser features a different theme each year, but has followed the same format the last six years, Horn said.

The CASA program provides trained community volunteers who advocate for abused and neglected children of various ages during juvenile court proceedings after the child is placed with child protective services.

Volunteers speak for children who have become involved in the court process as a result of abuse, neglect or divorce. The goal is to find a safe, permanent home for the child.

Friday's event will feature musical entertainment provided by local orchestra students, heavy hors d'oeuvres and cocktails. The event will also include a special recognition of CASA volunteers and donors who make contributions at various levels. "We'll recognize volunteers as well, and touch on the program and how it's impacted this community's children in the past 22 years," Horn said.

The CASA agency receives a small percentage of its funds from the state, some money through grants, and a large portion through community support, Horn said.

"Each CASA program is responsible for raising its own money in addition to state funding," she said.

Funds go toward costs related to recruiting, screening and training volunteers in the community and other program operations. The organization operates on a budget of about $25,000.

"We don't require a large budget to operate," Horn said. "Most people donate their time as volunteers."

Last year's event brought in about $7,000 for the Bourbon County CASA chapter, which formed in 1990.

Anyone interested in attending the fundraiser can still make a reservation by contacting Horn at (620) 223-2044, 223-2407, or by email at bbcocasa@cpol.net.