Spring Light of Hope Breakfast

This FREE breakfast has been a long time staple of the Friends organization. It serves as an opportunity to update community and business leaders on the current state of child welfare advocacy in our local community and statewide, what the CASA and foster care review board needs are, and it finally serves as a fundraiser so these needs can be fulfilled throughout the year. 

Although Friends' fundraising goes where it is most needed in the CASA and FCRB programs, the board is highlighting two priorities right now: It will take an estimated $1.5M to provide an additional 1,224 children in Iowa with a CASA volunteer. Friends is focused on securing at least 1/4 of this funding - $375,000 - for the remainder of FY 24 and during FY '25, though depending on funding from the Iowa Legislature and other sources, this may take longer to achieve. 

The second priority highlights a need for Polk County’s foster care review board. In Jan. 2024, this board lost its physical meeting place where monthly reviews have been conducted since July 2021. This was purely a financial reason. Though reviews may happen virtually, it is critical for the board to have an in-person setting: it allows the board to connect with the families served, and it allows the board to access appropriate cyber security to protect sensitive information about children in foster care. The estimated cost to rent a space is $500 per month.

By harnessing the collective power of community, these goals can be achieved and change children's stories! Breakfast is free and our in-person guests will receive a swag bag for their support. Register today!