From the Executive Director’s Desk: State of the Union

Written by Kendra Jones

Exciting things are unfolding at CASA of Lane County, and I am thrilled to share the latest updates with you. First and foremost, I’m pleased to announce that Hannah Storms will be joining our team as Program Manager in March 2025. With her addition, our dedicated staff will grow to 20 members. Many of you are familiar with our beautiful CASA house, and you may be wondering how we’re accommodating our expanding team.

In response to our growth, we’re taking the first steps toward evaluating our office space. A Board Ad-Hoc Committee is being established to assess the organization’s needs and explore options for either remodeling our current space or considering alternative solutions. We anticipate engaging professionals such as architects, engineers, and commercial real estate agents. Stay tuned for more information as things unfold!

Beyond expanding our team, we are committed to embracing a culture of Continuous Quality Improvement (CQI). These efforts will enhance our programs and ensure that we are operating at maximum efficiency, all while continuing to provide the best possible support for the children and youth we serve. We have started by redesigning our intake and case assignment process, which has dramatically increased the number of children we support. We’ll share more details on these exciting developments in the March edition of our newsletter.

As we grow, we’re also responding to significant challenges within the child welfare system. One of the most pivotal moments of the past year was the heartbreaking loss of Jacob, a teen in foster care, who tragically died by suicide while in temporary lodging in August 2024. His death has inspired meaningful changes within our organization, aligning with broader reforms in the child welfare system to better support youth in foster care.

This year, Oregon’s legislative session will include an omnibus bill focused on critical reforms to the child welfare system. Alongside supporting this bill, we are working to secure increased funding for the Oregon CASA Network to meet the growing demand for advocacy. Our goal is to secure $10 million in funding statewide. Currently, we have secured $5.9 million and are working diligently to close the gap. This funding is vital to fulfilling our mandate of providing a CASA for every child who enters the child welfare system.

While there has been uncertainty at the federal level with the new administration, I want to reassure you that CASA of Lane County remains fiscally healthy. We have strong financial reserves in place to support our operations should there be any delays in funding due to federal changes. We are confident in our ability to continue delivering essential services to children in need, regardless of external circumstances.

Finally, if you have not purchased your tickets for Casino Night yet, you won’t want to miss out! Our event Theme is Casino Night Reunion and we are back at The Graduate. Visit our website https://www.casa-lane.org/casino-night and purchase your tickets today.

Thank you for your unwavering support as we navigate this exciting period of growth and transformation. Together, we are making a lasting difference in the lives of the children who need our advocacy now more than ever.

With gratitude,

Kendra Jones
Executive Director
CASA of Lane County