CASA of C.O. receives $25,000 matching gift challenge

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) -- CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates) of Central Oregon received a generous $25,000 matching gift challenge from the WHH Foundation.  Beginning this month, contributors to the new Heroes of Hope monthly giving program will see their donation matched dollar for dollar, up to $25,000.

This support will give more children in foster care in Central Oregon the benefit of a Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA volunteer).

In America, a child enters the foster care system every two minutes, and currently there are not enough CASA volunteers to serve every child.

“The needs of our local children coming into care are more complicated than ever before.  Life in foster care can be chaotic, especially during the COVID 19 pandemic.” said Heather Dion, executive director. “Every child deserves the support of a caring, consistent adult with the training to help them heal and thrive.

"As a result of the WHH Foundation matching gift challenge, our community’s generosity is doubled. This will be an incredible impact for children who have experienced abuse or neglect.” 

Currently, there are over 300 kids in foster care locally, 70 of whom needing individualized representation from a CASA volunteer.

CASA serves an area that stretches over 7,833 square miles, with offices in Bend, Madras and Prineville. CASA volunteers come from across Central Oregon and the children served regularly move across the entire tri-county area.

“The WHH Foundation’s mission is to invest in human capital to make the world a little better. We are strong believers in the power of a match incentive, and proud to support CASA so that funds raised through Heroes of Hope will benefit hundreds of children currently in foster care in Central Oregon,” said Courtney MacMillan, WHH Foundation board member.

“The Foundation wishes to inspire individuals, local businesses, corporations and others to give to Heroes of Hope so that every child in foster care has a CASA volunteer.”

For more information about becoming a CASA volunteer or becoming Hero of Hope, visit casaofcentraloregon.org or call (541) 389-1618.