30 Years of CASA

In 1989, a group of women from the Junior League of Sioux Falls were tasked with doing research to learn the needs in the 2nd Judicial Circuit (Minnehaha and Lincoln Counties) for a CASA program. Circuit Judge Gene Paul Kean knew he needed the help of trained volunteers to be the eyes and ears of the Court. Time went by and the need was apparent - there were hundreds of children experiencing abuse and neglect. An advisory board was formed, bylaws and articles of incorporation were written and signed. And on September 6, 1994, the Secretary of the State of South Dakota signed the document making us an official nonprofit!

We are grateful for the initial leadership that made this program possible! A shoestring budget, a willing (and dedicated) part-time Executive Director, a lease from Minnehaha County for an office space, an answering machine from Walmart, a phone from Target, office supplies from Interstate Office Supplies, furniture from Citibank, and a vision that every child deserves to be heard!

In 1995, we held our first New Volunteer Training in which five volunteers took part and were sworn-in by the Judge. Since then, hundreds more have followed in their footsteps giving their voices to advocate for over 4700 children in the Sioux Falls area.

As we honor our past and all we have accomplished, we would like to thank those who have been with us along the way. So, THANK YOU to those who have served as Board Members, CASA Staff, CASA Volunteer Advocates, Donors, Supporters, Social Media Sharers, and the list goes on…We feel your love and support.

Here’s to our next 30 Years!