Editor’s note: You may remember Ellen Ferguson from her Advocate Spotlight in September 2023. The below is an excerpt from her speech at our February 2026 For the Love of Children Luncheon event when Ellen shared how advocacy was enhanced by the CASA Children’s Fund.
Four of the five children Ellen advocated for were infants or toddlers when their cases began, making trust with their adult caregivers, whether biological parents or resource parents, essential. Building that trust took intention, beginning with deep listening. Ellen proved that she wasn’t there to judge or criticize, but to support caregivers and understand what would help their children thrive.
Ellen showed up consistently, bringing items that reflected care and thoughtfulness, including books, pajamas, and hand‑sewn quilts. For Spanish‑speaking families, she made sure books were provided in Spanish, helping families feel supported from the start.
The CASA Children’s Fund played a critical role in allowing Ellen to meet children’s immediate needs. Through the fund, she was able to purchase essential items such as highchairs, cribs, and car seats, and provide necessities like diapers and infant formula.
Beyond meeting basic needs, the Children’s Fund allowed Ellen to provide activities and resources to enhance children’s physical and cognitive development as well as their self‑esteem. One toddler she worked with struggled with emotional eating, which led to unhealthy weight gain. Using Children’s Fund resources, Ellen enrolled her in dance and swimming lessons, helping address the weight concern while offering a positive outlet that supported both physical health and emotional well‑being.
Another child, a highly active four‑year‑old boy, faced challenges with anger management and impulse control. Ellen used Children’s Fund support to provide a soccer ball for park visits, a YMCA membership, swim lessons, and touch football classes. The interaction with other children taught him important social skills, and his athletic abilities increased his self‑esteem and impulse control.
The CASA Children’s Fund empowers Advocates to respond to the unique and evolving needs of the families we serve. It impacts the lives of children, helping to foster resilience and connection during a stressful and often confusing period in their lives. Donations to the CASA Children’s Fund directly support the children and families we serve, to help them grow, heal, and thrive.
