Can you imagine the agony of being an abused or neglected child, thrown into the court system, with no way to speak up for yourself? Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) gives these children a voice. Its volunteers help the court system serve the best interests of the child—and no one else. But without the dollars to support the training of volunteers, the organization simply would not exist. CASA receives no federal or state funds, so public support is paramount.

CASA of Peoria Country’s primary fundraising event is a fun-filled evening featuring six local celebrities dancing with dance specialists from Body Fitness and The Tap Shack. Local celebrity judges rate the dancers and include audience vote participation. The event also features a silent auction, hors d‘oeuvres and live music.

“Last year, I had the pleasure of participating as a ‘celebrity dancer’ at CASAblanca,” says event co-chair Gina Morss-Fischer. “I loved the opportunity to learn the tango and salsa. Even though it was a little nerve-wracking, my partner from Body Fitness, Hassan Wehbe, and I had a blast!” 

Funds raised at CASAblanca will be used to support its volunteers and expand its advocacy for local children. By using trained community volunteers, CASA provides an innovative, cost-effective solution to an urgent crisis in the juvenile justice and foster care system.

So step on out to the Par-A-Dice on November 6th. “As time goes by throughout the evening, you might feel a little like Bogart and Bacall, or maybe you’ll just feel like dancing,” says Morss-Fischer. “Either way, we’re confident you won’t want to miss this very special night.” a&s