CIN

CASA for Clermont Kids held its annual Spring Gala at Receptions in Eastgate. More than $41,000 was raised to provide advocates for the abused and neglected children of Clermont County.

The emcee of the event was Bob Herzog, reporter/anchor at Channel 12, who brought much energy and laughter to the evening. The evening consisted of dinner, silent auction, live auction and once again, the county raffle basket drawing was a huge success. Clermont County departments competed in a friendly battle to see who could sell the most tickets for their basket.

Raffle baskets ranged from “The Car Care” basket donated by Common Pleas Adult Probation which consisted of everything to keep your car looking fabulous to Municipal Courts “Christmas in April” which consisted of a variety of gift cards displayed on a cute Christmas tree. This year the Sheriff’s Office won the coveted prize with their “Man Cave” basket. They now hold the traveling trophy and receive a free table for 10 at next year’s event. We appreciate the nine county departments that took part in this year’s friendly raffle basket competition.

Jeff Lykins, president and CEO of Lykins Energy Solutions, received the first Lykins Positive Energy Award. This award, which will be given out annually at future spring charity galas, is being named after Lykins for all he has done to support CASA for Clermont Kids. The purpose of this award is to recognize and thank an individual or company for their outstanding support, efforts, and commitment to CASA for Clermont Kids. It also recognizes the difference they have made and continue to make to our program and in the community.

We could not have held another successful event without the amazing support of all our volunteers, community members and businesses who all contributed towards our silent auction, live auctions and other fun raffles throughout the evening. Considering a near sellout crowd, those interested in attending are encouraged to save the date for next year’s Gala April 24.

Despite the success at the event, CASA for Clermont Kids still needs the community’s support. CASA needs volunteers to become advocates for children in the court system, to assist with community awareness and to work on the special events committee. For the year of 2013, CASA served 231 children in Clermont County. There are still more children waiting for a CASA to advocate for their best interest.

CASA for Clermont Kids is a non-profit agency that advocates for the best interests of abused, neglected and dependent children who have been introduced into Clermont County Juvenile Court. CASA recruits and trains community involved citizens to volunteer as Guardians ad Litem who independently work in the court system to serve as the child’s advocate and court representative.

For community involved citizens who wish to be the voice for a child within the court, you can make application for our year round training. For more information on how to become an advocate contact Jess Seamon at jessica@casaforclermontkids.org or 513-732-7160. For more information about CASA for Clermont Kids or to learn more about the sponsors for our event check out our website at www.casaforclermontkids.org.