Central SD CASA

Sometimes, the impact of advocacy isn’t fully seen until years later. 💙

A recent story shared by the National CASA/GAL Association highlighted a former CASA volunteer who unexpectedly reconnected with a child he once advocated for more than 30 years ago. What he discovered was a lasting family connection that continued long after his role ended.

Stories like this are a powerful reminder that support, consistency, and advocacy can leave a lifelong impact on a child’s future.

The Reunion He Never Expected to See Like many CASA/GAL volunteers, he didn’t know how the child’s life unfolded in the years or even decades that followed.

Ever wonder what a CASA volunteer does?

A Court-Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) is a trained volunteer who speaks up for children experiencing abuse or neglect during court proceedings. CASA volunteers help ensure children’s voices are heard and their best interests stay the priority.

✔️ Build relationships with the child
✔️ Gather important information
✔️ Advocate in court
✔️ Support safe, stable outcomes

One caring adult can make a lasting difference. 💙

Interested in learning more about becoming a CASA volunteer?
🔗 https://bit.ly/4uQS6uB

Children are assigned a CASA advocate through the court system during abuse or neglect cases. Once appointed, the CASA volunteer works alongside professionals involved in the case while focusing on the child’s best interests and overall well-being.

We’re proud to welcome a new advocate to our CASA family 💙

On April 20, 2026, Sixth Circuit Judge Christine Klinger officially swore in Garry Guan as a Court Appointed Special Advocate. Garry brings a strong passion for serving youth, along with previous volunteer experience through the Big Brothers Big Sisters program.

His commitment to advocating for the best interests of children who have experienced abuse and neglect will make a meaningful impact in our community.

Please join us in welcoming Garry to Central SD CASA! 👏

What an incredible evening.

From the bottom of our hearts, thank you to everyone who joined us for the Changing Lives, Taking Flight event. To our sponsors, our donors, our raffle ticket holders, our silent auction bidders, and every guest who walked through the doors, you made this night possible, and you made a real difference in the lives of children across Central South Dakota.

Events like this one fuel the work we do every day, training and supporting CASA volunteers who advocate for abused and neglected children in court, making sure every child has a dedicated voice by their side.

We are so proud of this community. 🙌

Thank you to our sponsors and silent auction donors for your support of Central SD CASA and our mission to promote and protect the best interests of abused and neglected children involved in court proceedings through the advocacy efforts of trained volunteers.

Winners of the Changing Lives, Taking Flight Raffle are:
✈️ Platinum Destinations: Sadie Peterson
✈️ Golden Sunsets: Bryan Boocock

Congratulations to the winners and thank you to all who attended. What a wonderful community we have!

More photos of the evening to come!

Today is the day!

We are so excited to welcome our community tonight for Changing Lives, Taking Flight. To everyone who purchased a ticket, entered the raffle, placed a bid, or supported this event in any way, thank you. Tonight would not be possible without you.

We cannot wait to spend the evening with people who care deeply about the children of Central South Dakota.

It is going to be a wonderful night!

One week from today, we will be gathered together in Fort Pierre for an evening we have been looking forward to all year.

Changing Lives, Taking Flight is just 7 days away, and we are so grateful for everyone who has already purchased a ticket, entered the raffle, or signed on as a sponsor. Your support means the world to us and, more importantly, to the children we serve.

If you have not yet secured your spot, there is still time!

Individual tickets: $50
Tables of 8: $375.
Raffle tickets are also still available at $100 and $250.

We hope to see you there!

📅 May 28th | 📍 325 Hustan Ave, Fort Pierre, SD
🎟️ https://bit.ly/4buW0T9

One of our favorite parts of Changing Lives, Taking Flight? The silent auction.

We are putting together a wonderful collection of items and experiences, all available to bid on the night of May 28th.

Whether you are searching for something meaningful, something adventurous, or something that would make the perfect gift, we think you will find something that catches your eye.

Every bid placed at our silent auction supports the CASA volunteers who walk alongside abused and neglected children through some of the most difficult moments of their lives. When you bid, you are investing in a child's future.

Stay tuned!