Stacy Eastwood shares
her story with CASA.
 
Thank you to everyone who participated in this event!  You helped to make it a success for CASA children.
 
 

Promise of Hope Luncheon

Promise of Hope Shares Inspiring Story
Stacy Eastwood and Betsy Bautz Receive Standing Ovation
 
On April 5th, some 450 CASA volunteers, donors and friends attended the 9th Annual Promise of Hope Luncheon.  The event emphasized community and the importance of working together to protect children who have been victims of abuse and neglect.  Stacy Eastwood, an adoptive mother, and CASA volunteer Betsy Bautz together shared a personal and emotional message with guests.  Their story involved the lives of three children who had endured severe neglect and physical abuse.  The youngest, a special needs child, had been forced to live for months in an attic.  His sisters, who were also abused, were required to keep the secret.  Recognized by those in attendance as a case that had made breaking news in 2010, the story detailed how all three children have managed to find hope and recovery with the help of their CASA volunteer, who they lovingly call "Betsy Bear-Paw."  The message offered by Stacy and Betsy brought guests to their feet.  A video of the children was also a highlight; guests had the opportunity to witness the children's now happy life shared with their adoptive family. 
 
Lieutenant Mike Pfannenstiel of the Johnson County Sheriff's Department also spoke at the event.  His message brought awareness to the growing numbers of abused children in the community, and how the severity of those cases is increasing.
 
Christa Dubill of 41 Action News returned as emcee for the Promise of Hope Luncheon.  Maggie Bessenbacher, CASA Board President, and Executive Director Lois Rice also spoke to those in attendance and asked for continued and increased support for the CASA mission.

CASA would like to thank our Table Captains and donor family.  The Promise of Hope raised nearly $35,000 in event day gifts and pledges.  Proceeds of the event will benefit local child victims of abuse or neglect and those who are in need of a CASA advocate. 
 
You can be the Promise of Hope for children by contributing a gift to CASA.  You may donate online or by mail.  To learn how you can become a CASA advocate, click here.