CASA of South Central Missouri hosted its 9th Annual Festival of Trees on Dec. 6 at the Havener Center on the Missouri S&T campus, with more than 450 guests.
At this year’s event, CASA celebrated 20 years of advocating for children in foster care across the 25th Judicial Circuit.
WILLIAM’S STORY
The evening began with a conversation with William, a former foster youth. William shared the painful reality of his early childhood — instability, addiction and trauma no child should ever endure. At age 13, after being taken into custody at school, he entered foster care feeling overwhelmed and unsure of who he could trust. Then, he met his CASA volunteer, Debbie.
For the first time, someone spoke to him instead of about him. Debbie listened. She explained. She showed up, over and over again. She became the one constant through some of the hardest moments of his life.
William recounted the turning points that led him toward healing, including his time in rehab and his promise to himself to change the direction of his life — a promise he has kept for more than three years.
On July 15, 2024, after 605 days in foster care and five placements, William found permanency with guardianship into the McConahay family.
A little more than a year later, on Aug. 7, 2025, they adopted him.
2025 ADVOCATES OF THE YEAR
One of the most meaningful moments of the night was celebrating the Advocate of the Year Award recipients, sponsored by Sherry Stites with Shelter Insurance. Merri Borta, a volunteer since 2023, and Linda Giger, an advocate since 2012, received the honor.
Borta served two complex cases with remarkable compassion and resilience. After the loss of her husband and fellow advocate, Tom, she continued advocating with extraordinary strength, providing stability to the children she serves during an incredibly difficult season.
Giger stood beside children in well over a dozen cases, served as volunteer liaison to the Board and accepted cases even while serving on the CASA board of directors. Her expertise in special education is invaluable, especially in one of the most complex ongoing cases. She exemplifies CASA’s mission in every way.
OTHER ITEMS
- The event, made possible by presenting sponsor Phelps Health, featured a live auction, led by auctioneers Matt McCarter and Christian Butler.
- The organization is exploring the creation of a community-centered space.
- The 10th Annual Festival of Trees is Saturday, Dec. 5, 2026.
For more information or to get involved, visit www.casascmo.org or call 573-426-5437.