Virtual palooza pulls through for CASA
ALBION — Northeastern Indiana CASA held its annual event to raise funds for the mission, but this year’s event went virtual. CASA Palooza, held in September, generated more than $20,400 through a few days of online auctions and generous sponsors.
“I want to thank all of our sponsors, advocates and staff,” said Executive Director Brooke Griggs. “We weren’t sure exactly how we would transition Palooza to an online format, but we all pulled it off.”
Typically, caterers, restaurants, and other eateries come together for a night of tasting stations that vary from lobster bisque to prime rib to tiramisu. A venue in Rome City is usually packed with crowds tasting and sipping their way through the night while bidding on silent and live auction items.
Northeastern Indiana CASA provides court-appointed advocates for children involved in judicial proceedings. Community members from DeKalb, Lagrange, Noble, Steuben and Whitley counties volunteer their time to be an advocate, working with children to be a voice for them and their best interests in the courtroom.
"This is our main fundraiser each year,” said Abby Gabet, volunteer coordinator. “Our staff, volunteers and supporters gathered great auction items that made our online event great. We are really grateful for everyone’s help and continued support even though we had to switch to the online format. Once the event was over, people were so good about coming to the office for curb-side pickup of auction items. Everyone was a good sport.”
Funds raised from the annual event will be used to provide training for volunteers and staff as well as supply the day-to-day operations with funding necessary to carry out its mission. Although the event is over, donations are always accepted, and volunteers are welcome. Sponsors for the event included DEKKO Investment Services, Butler CPA, Farmers State Bank, Cameron Memorial Community Hospital, Mosquito Squad, Harbor Touch, Steel Dynamics, Inc., Parkview Noble Hospital, Swick Broadcasting Company, Inc., and Wirco.
Visit the website at www.neincasa.net to learn more about volunteer opportunities and Northeastern Indiana CASA’s mission.
