As I write this, a number of your Voices program staff are in Seattle for the 2017 National CASA conference. There is no better backdrop for our conference week than Seattle, the city where it all began in 1977. The experience has been incredible. We've had guest speakers to include J.D. Vance, author of Hillbilly Elegy, Michaela Periera, host of HLN's new two-hour daily news program, and one of five adopted girls in her family's household, Giovan Bazan, a former foster youth who was abused, neglected and abandoned, and Judge David Soukup (retired) who began the national CASA effort in his court in 1977. Forty years after Judge Soukup began the CASA movement millions of children have had their stories told, their voices heard. This year's theme has been "Building Brighter Futures for America's Children", and you have been a very important part of building this future for the children in foster care in the greater St. Louis area. A child who has experienced abuse and/or neglect has the support of a caring, consistent adult with the training and tenacity to get results. This person is you, the Court Appointed Special Advocate. On behalf of the 1,500 conference attendees, national and state staff, our 900+ local organizations, the St. Louis Voices For Children staff and me, please accept our heartfelt thanks for all that you do for the children.

 

Steve Moergen

Executive Director