The Genesee County chapter of the Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) for Children celebrated their 11th Annual CASAblanca Casino fundraiser last September 30 at Terry Hills Banquet Facility, where approximately 80 guests filled the venue with enthusiasm and support.
“Seeing such a turnout gives us so much joy as we witness the community rallying behind our cause,” said Jennifer Metz, Executive Director of Genesee County CASA, describing an evening brimming with amusement, casino-themed games, basket raffles, and a silent auction, all made possible by Upstate Vegas Events.
A highlight of the event included a heartfelt speech from special guest Madi Coniglio, who explicably conveyed her transformative journey with CASA. “CASA restored my hope and stability. They heard me, really heard me, and in their support, I found a life I didn’t have to doubt,” said Coniglio.
Additional remarks from Pamela Wentworth, Board Member and Volunteer Advocate, and the Honorable Thomas Williams, Genesee County Family Court Judge, underscored the broad-reaching impact of CASA’s work.
The success of the event was marked not only by the entertainment but also by the palpable sense of community. Metz reflected on the memorable evening filled with camaraderie, great food catered by Terry Hills, and the generous donations, acknowledging that “these funds will directly support our ongoing efforts for the children in our community.”
Furthermore, Metz gratefully recognized the substantial contributions of their sponsors, including “Rick’s Café” sponsor, West Middlebury Baptist Church, King-level sponsors, Empire Building Diagnostics and Liberty Pumps, Queen-level sponsors, which include Upstate Niagara Cooperative – OATKA, Batavia Downs and Gaming and others. Besides, she confirmed that the success of the event would not have been possible without the generous donations of gift baskets, certificates, and silent auction items from local businesses.
Genesee County CASA operates as a private, non-profit organization, demonstrating a commitment to safeguarding the welfare of abused or neglected children through the advocacy of their trained volunteers. Their key objective is to ensure these children, who are often at risk of losing their homes or are already in foster care, are swiftly relocated to safe, permanent households. Metz further highlighted the significant difference a CASA advocate can make in improving a child’s holistic wellbeing and stability.
To continue their mission, Metz encourages interested individuals to join their team of volunteer advocates. “Our doors are always open for those who want to be a part of our advocacy,” said Metz.
Interested parties can reach Jennifer Metz at 585-815-7809 or director@geneseecountycasa.org for more information about the CASA program or volunteer opportunities.
