If there is one thing Katie Higgins would tell every Theta, it is that the CASA/GAL mission is not a generalized one of helping children. “Children served by CASA programs are not theoretical,” she says. “They are real children with real challenges, the likes of which most of us have never seen. Everyone has troubles—but for most of us, the lack of a loving family isn’t one of them. In fact, as Thetas, we have many loving families.”
An alumna of Theta’s Kappa Chapter at the University of Kansas and a four-year member of the board of Douglas County CASA (Kansas), Katie is passionate about raising awareness and knowledge of the CASA program’s work. Serving on the CASA program’s events committee allows her to do just that, particularly through an event called CASAblanca, which not only raises more than $100,000 a year but also showcases the true impact of the CASA program on the community. “It’s hard to talk about children who have experienced abuse and neglect. It’s hard to realize that this is happening to kids right now, to kids right down the street. Through this event, we can share the impact of what CASA volunteers do.”
Katie believes that emphasizing the connection between the CASA program and the local community is another key to the program’s success. “Hands-on involvement forges that connection,” she says. “Volunteering is easier when there’s an immediate connection, when you can see the results firsthand.”
“Volunteering is something everyone should do, especially Thetas. Our commitment to philanthropy will never go away.”