“I wanted to THANK you for every little detail the CASA organization/team put into the Christmas party … Thank you all for your thoughtfulness and generosity to help make what can be a tough time for our casa kids a lot better.” - Kelly Ann, CASA Volunteer

Over 500 attended this year’s holiday party where CASA youth and their advocates enjoyed visits with Santa, cookie decorating, crafts, therapy animals, games, hot chocolate, and corn dogs from the Wienerschnitzel food truck. Children and young adults in attendance ranged in age from 4 to 21. Everyone left at the end of the day with an armful of gifts, including a wide selection of new books, clothing accessories, games, superhero kits, and pillowcases. A silent disco and a DJ rounded out the day’s activities.

*CASA Board Members: Michael Wong, Anar Patel, Lindsey J. Poker, Todd Vande Hei, Courtney Wittkop, Jassel Kaye, Carol Moore, Judge Gail Andler (Ret.), David Nusz*

The CASA holiday party is one of the most joyful events of the year and offers youth in foster care an opportunity to enjoy the holidays and reconnect with friends and siblings they may not regularly see due to different placements. It’s also a happy time for CASA staff and advocates who get to see the children they advocate for throughout the year, experience a day of play and happiness.

This event would not be possible without the generous support of Saddleback Church who hosts the party at their Irvine campus and provide dozens of volunteers. Special thanks to all our community partners who helped with the holiday party and toy drive including:

Saddleback Church Lake Forest Campus Initiative for Vulnerable Children Ministry

Saddleback Church Irvine South Campus

CASA Board Members

Galardi Group (Weinerschnitzel)

Stance

Angels

Mattel

Barnes & Noble Aliso Viejo

Barnes & Nobles Huntington Beach

Goody

Friends of CASA

South Coast District DAPO- Rajesh Talwar District Administrator, and staff volunteers