Jeepin’ for CASA makes a successful Fun-Raiser

The backroads of the Ozarks had a little extra traffic last Saturday, April 22. Two bright pink Jeep Wranglers, followed by 212 more Jeeps, left the North Arkansas College parking lot at 10 a.m. The line of vehicles took a tour of parts of the Ozarks that remain unpaved and remote. It was quite an impressive (and probably puzzling) sight for the farms and homes that line Boat Mountain, Newton Line and Pinnacle Mountain Roads!

All the Jeeps were part of the Jeepin’ for CASA fundraiser, now in it’s 3rd yearly run. CASA of North Arkansas saw the highest number of participants and exceeded fundraising goals with the help of the community. Residents, businesses and clubs came together to help make the event a success. Natural State Towing and RE/MAX Unlimited helped get Pink Jeep Tours to come and lead the way. The Mud Hog Jeep Club volunteered by directing traffic and parking. Upon returning from the tour, guests enjoyed a silent auction, food trucks, a bounce house, face painting and many other activities.

CASA of North Arkansas recognized the people that dedicate their time and efforts to the cause and awarded long time volunteers.

Attendees at the event were able see the real results of the efforts of advocates. Jessica Estes relayed the story of Aleighya, her adopted daughter, and the help she received from a CASA advocate. Jessica and her husband, Wyatt, were able to adopt Aleighya and provide a stable, loving home for her with the help of CASA. “They helped me navigate the complex court system, listened to my concerns, and made sure that this little girl had a permanent home. Thank you so much to CASA and Aleighya, for changing our lives.” Estes stated.

CASA stands for Court Appointed Special Advocates. The organization provides a voice for children that are in the foster care system. Community members go through specialized training, then take on cases on a volunteer basis. A judge can appoint an advocate to represent the best interests and speak up for abused and neglected children in Baxter, Boone, Marion and Newton counties. Once a CASA volunteer is assigned a case, essentially they become the eyes and ears for the court. Volunteers do research, conduct interviews and meet with the children and listen to the concerns of the child. Each case requires a minimum one-year commitment with the ultimate goal of staying with the case until it is permanently resolved. Advocates remain a consistent figure in the child’s life, providing a consistent, reliable contact that is on their side.

To learn more about CASA of North Arkansas, visit casaofna.org or call 870-204-5489 to learn more. Volunteers are always needed to help the approximately 130 children currently in foster care in the four county district.