By Melanie Becker-Donovan
Community members will have an opportunity to support children and families served by Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) during the organization’s annual Casakids’ Winter Wonderland fundraiser, featuring live and silent auctions and a variety of donated items and experiences. The event is scheduled for 5 p.m. on Nov. 21 at First American Bank. “Winter Wonderland is one of our favorite events of the year,” stated Sarah Pukansky, Casakids’ chief development officer. “Guests can look forward to a beautiful evening filled with holiday cheer, festive decorations and delicious food and drinks.
The evening’s live auction is guided by renowned auctioneer Shane Hall. The live auctions and silent auctions feature Christmas trees and other holiday décor, decorated by Casakids’ designers Adelina Mendez and Maribel Quezada. Also auctioned off are unique experiences and items donated by local businesses and supporters. Proceeds from the fundraiser will benefit all 29 Casakids programs.
While Pukansky doesn’t have a specific dollar amount in mind, her focus is on making this year’s Winter Wonderland as successful and impactful as possible. Every dollar raised helps to continue providing programs and services to the children and families who depend on Casakids. “For us, success isn’t measured solely by a dollar amount,” stated Pukansky. “But by the difference we can make in the lives of those who need us most.”
Community contributions help Casakids support vulnerable children and families, including children who have experienced abuse or neglect. The organization’s work includes advocating for children’s needs, helping ensure their voices are heard and working toward safe and stable futures. ”Community support is truly at the heart of what we do at Casakids,” stated Pukansky. “Every donation, sponsorship and act of generosity helps us make a meaningful difference in the lives of vulnerable children and families in our community.
“We are incredibly grateful for the local businesses, community partners and individuals who help make Winter Wonderland possible,” stated Pukansky. “Their generosity, whether through financial sponsorships, auction donations or contributions of time and resources, is what makes this event so special. We cannot thank the community enough for their continued support and commitment to the children and families we serve.
“What makes this so special is that our supporters may never meet the children whose lives they impact,” stated Pukansky. “But their generosity can change the course of a child’s life.”
The Christmas store will be held at First United Methodist Church this year since Casakids had to leave their former location. The Christmas store is where community members donate donations and gifts, new and unused only; volunteers are recruited to organize donations and select gifts for children in foster care, and the organization coordinates with the Roswell Police Department and Chaves County Sheriff’s Office to deliver gifts to those children. “Donations are always accepted and greatly appreciated,” stated Pukansky. “To donate, you can stop by any of Casakid’s seven locations or click the donate now button on our website.”
The Casakids Christmas store has already begun collecting donations. “The Christmas store is another wonderful way our community can help make the holidays brighter for children and families,” stated Pukansky.
According to her, relocating the entire organization was no small undertaking when the work they do is so vital to the children and families who depend on them. They weren’t just moving the spaces where children find safety; families received support and hope was restored. The goal was to ensure that throughout the transitions, the programs could continue serving those in need.
In addition to attending the event, community members can support Casakids’ Winter Wonderland by becoming sponsors or donating items for the auctions.
For the ticket link, visit its Facebook page. Tickets are available at the door as well. For more information, to purchase tickets, become a sponsor or donate an auction item, visit casakids.org/winter-wonderland.
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