Excitement filled the air as CASA OC advocates and their youth began lining up well before the 10:30 a.m. start of the annual CASA Holiday Party. Nearly 500 children, teens, and advocates gathered for this much-anticipated celebration, held this year at Saddleback Church’s Lake Forest campus.

Once inside, CASA youth stepped into a football-field-sized tent transformed into a holiday wonderland. There, they joyfully selected gifts for themselves and for family members. Volunteers from CASA OC and Saddleback Church helped distribute books donated by Barnes & Noble shoppers, cuddly stuffed animals from PetSmart, and cozy handmade blankets and pillows lovingly crafted by local NCL Chapters and the Junior League—along with a treasure trove of other thoughtful gifts and supplies.

A new “Magic Wrappy” station added an extra touch of magic this year, giving children the chance to wrap presents for loved ones. CASA supervisor Nikki Arbanas was there to support little hands trying to wrap gifts. She said, “It was so special to see the youth wrapping gifts with the help of their CASAs, others carefully placing gifts into bags with tissue paper, or taking time to make heartfelt cards for loved ones. One child said, ‘I have four siblings and I got them each gifts! When I get home, I’m going to run to my room and hide the gifts under my bed. When they’re sleeping at night, I’m going to sneak out of my room and put the gifts under the tree. ” Her excitement and selflessness was priceless.”

Outside, the fun continued with something for everyone: a “Snowball Showdown,” face painting, cookie decorating, holiday music jams by Young Life One, ornament decorating, jewelry making, a petting zoo, games, and sports. One of the most beloved stops was Santa’s Village, where CASA youth posed for photos with Santa Claus—who bore an uncanny resemblance to CASA board member David Nusz—along with his cheerful elves, including his wife Rita and daughter Morgan.

The Galardi Group (aka Wienerschnitzel) was out in force, serving hundreds of hot dogs and chili dogs to hungry attendees. They also hosted a game table, handed out piles of Wienerschnitzel swag, and sent The Delicious One (TDO)—a giant, walking hot dog—roaming the event for fun photo opportunities with kids.

This joyful celebration would not have been possible without months of dedicated planning by CASA OC’s Community Partnership Coordinator, Misty Webb; Saddleback Church’s Max McGhee and Trena Berrier; and The Galardi Group’s Kellai O’Brian.

CASA OC is deeply grateful to the many members of our community who came together to make this Holiday Party so special. Misty said of the event, “The joy and excitement on the faces of the youth we serve truly remind us why our community’s support matters so much.” Thank you to our many partners, supporters and sponsors listed below for sharing your generosity, kindness, and holiday cheer with hundreds of CASA youth.

Andrew + Higgins

Angels

Barnes & Nobles Huntington Beach

Barnes & Nobles, Aliso Viejo

Bunbebes

Burnam Benefits

Carrington Charitable Foundation

CASA Board Members

CASA Staff

Children's Village Preschool

Cinderella's Closet

David Roberts Real Estate