Passaic County CASA Campaign Yields $100K In Donations

WAYNE, NJ - A large donation to Passaic County Court Appointed Special Advocates doubled the amount the organization has received during a recent fundraiser, making it possible for the non-profit to serve even more children in foster care.

The Pamela and Craig Goldman Charitable Foundation recently gave $100,000 to CASA to match funds received during the “An Advocate For Every Child” campaign, according to a press release from CASA.

The donation was provided to match the funds received during the fundraiser, dollar for dollar, and it will help recruit, train and supervise volunteers to work with foster kids.

CASA, which is a Wayne-based volunteer organization, places court-appointed special advocates with a child who are victims of abuse or neglect to help make a difference in the lives of youngsters. Trained volunteers work with the children, relatives, doctors, teachers and caseworkers, and then make informed recommendations about what is in the best interest of the children.

“Through the support of Pamela and Craig Goldman, Passaic County CASA is poised for another banner year in fiscal year 2020,” Passaic County CASA Executive Director Erica Fischer-Kaslander said. “It is the commitment of our entire organization that each child victim of abuse and neglect will have the benefit of personal advocacy in order to reach a safe and permanent home. This is possible thanks to the support of donors like the Goldmans.”

“Passaic County CASA does a great job for the children who really need it,” Pamela Goldman said.

Craig Goldman echoed his wife’s sentiment, while adding a second reason for donating to the organization.

“If you’ve done well, you have an obligation to give back,” Craig Goldman said. “CASA’s work will change the lives of many children and help ensure their success in the future.”

The organization currently has 133 trained, court-appointed volunteer advocates, the highest number since CASE was founded in 2007. They served 272 children in foster care last year, a 9% increase from 2018, according to information provided by CASA.

CASA’s office space also recently expanded, which has double the square footage and room to accommodate additional growth by the organization.

For more information about Passaic County CASA, visit www.passaiccountycasa.org or call 973-832-4002.