Message from the Director

As we enter the second half of 2026, my heart is full. This year has been one of growth and continued
commitment to the children we serve at Great Rivers CASA/GAL. Expanding into Calhoun County in July 2025
was not just a logistical achievement—it was another promise kept. For 25 years, we have pledged that every
child in our region deserves to be seen, heard, and supported by someone who will never give up on them.
That promise continues to guide us today.

My journey with this organization began in 2002, when I stepped into the role of volunteer advocate. I didn’t
know then how profoundly this work would change me. Standing beside children in foster care, hearing their
stories, and speaking up for their needs became some of the most defining experiences of my life. Those
moments shaped who I am and continue to guide me now, nearly two decades later, in my role as Program
Director. Every child I’ve met reminds me why this work matters—and why we must always keep going.
The true heartbeat of our mission is our volunteers. CASA stands for Court Appointed Special Advocate, but
those words barely capture what our volunteers embody. They are steady voices in moments of uncertainty.
They are hope when children feel unseen. They are compassion in its most powerful form.

In 2025, 27 volunteers stood up for 120 children, giving more than 1,573 hours of their time. But their impact
cannot be measured in hours alone. Every visit, every court report, every moment they spend beside a child
says, “You matter. You are not alone.” Their dedication is the reason so many children find stability, trust, hope
& permanency. We are extremely grateful for their courage, generosity, and unwavering commitment.
I also want to express my deep appreciation for our exceptional staff—six individuals whose devotion and
compassion shine through everything they do. Their work behind the scenes strengthens our volunteers, our
program, and ultimately, the children we serve. They are the quiet, steady force that keeps us moving forward
every day.

Our Board of Directors plays an equally vital role. The guidance, oversight, and leadership they give ensure
our program remains strong, ethical, and financially sound. Their involvement in awareness activities and
fundraisers keeps our mission alive and growing. We are deeply thankful for their steadfast support and belief
in this work.

To our community partners, donors, and supporters—your generosity touches every child we serve. You help
make possible each child visit, every training, every court report, and every moment of hope. Your belief in our
mission strengthens us, and we are sincerely grateful for all you do.

As we continue through 2026, I carry with me the faces and stories of the children we’ve served, not only this
year but over the past 25 years. They remind us why we advocate, why we push through challenges, why we
continue to expand and grow. They are the reason we show up, day after day, with open hearts and
unwavering determination.

Together—with our volunteers, staff, Board of Directors, community partners, and supporters—we will continue
to lift up the voices of the most vulnerable children in our communities. One child at a time, we are making a
difference. And every bit of progress we make is a reflection of our commitment.

I am incredibly proud of our team and deeply grateful for the compassionate communities we are honored to
serve. Thank you for helping us ensure every child’s voice is heard.

With heartfelt gratitude,

Stacy Burney
Program Director
Great Rivers CASA/GAL