Record-Breaking Success at CASA's 8th Annual Festival of Trees

Rolla, MO – December 7, 2024 – CASA of South Central Missouri is thrilled to announce the overwhelming success of our 8th Annual Festival of Trees event, held on December 7th at the Innovation Lab on the Missouri S&T Campus. This year’s event set a new fundraising record, raising a remarkable $200,000, including in-kind donations—far surpassing last year’s total of $150,000.
The Innovation Lab was transformed into a Winter Wonderland, with festive carolers, beautifully decorated Christmas trees auctioned off to the highest bidder, and even a live Elf on the Shelf surprising guests throughout the night. We were thrilled to welcome 350 guests who came together to celebrate the season and support CASA’s mission. This success would not have been possible without the dedicated event committee, which included staff, board members, community partners, and generous sponsors. Our presenting sponsor, Phelps Health, has been a key partner in making this event a success, and we are deeply grateful for their continued support. Special thanks to Brittany Thompson, Director of Event Services at Missouri S&T, and her team for their invaluable assistance in hosting the event.
Leading up to the Festival of Trees, CASA also partnered with Leach Theatre for their White Christmas show, which added excitement and engagement to the holiday season.
2024 Advocate of the Year: Fonda Crouch Lohraff
We are honored to recognize Fonda Crouch Lohraff as our 2024 Advocate of the Year. A retired school teacher from Pulaski County, Fonda became a CASA volunteer in 2020, continuing her lifelong dedication to advocating for children. Her commitment to giving children in our community a voice is truly inspiring. We are proud to present Fonda with this award, sponsored by Southern Bank, and we thank them for their ongoing support.
This year’s milestone will help CASA continue our mission of advocating for children in need. The funds raised will support our volunteers with the resources and training necessary to make a lasting impact on the lives of the children and families we serve. While we are celebrating this incredible success, there is still much work to be done. Until we are able to advocate for every child in foster care within the 25th Judicial Circuit, we remain committed to our mission of ensuring that every child has a voice, a safe home, and a brighter future.
A Community Coming Together for Change
Executive Director Amber Stienbarger shared her thoughts on the event’s success: “When a community rallies behind a cause as important as ours, the impact is immeasurable. Our CASA volunteers exemplify the power of collective action and the profound difference it can make in the lives of vulnerable children. Together, we are building a brighter future, one child at a time.”
We are deeply grateful for the ongoing support from our community, which continues to inspire and drive us to achieve new heights. This event’s success is a testament to the power of community and the collective effort to make a difference.
 
Save the Date!
 
We’re already excited for next year’s event! Mark your calendars for the 9th Annual Festival of Trees, which will be held on Saturday, December 6th, 2025. Let’s goooo!!
With heartfelt appreciation,
Amber Stienbarger
Executive Director, CASA of South Central Missouri
For more information about CASA of South Central Missouri and how you can get involved, please visit www.casascmo.org or contact us at 573-426-5437.