(Gulfport, MS, October 9, 2024) – While it may come as a surprise, not all children receive birthday cakes each year growing up. Twenty years ago, CASA’s executive director, Cynthia Chauvin asked a young person who spent the majority of her teenage years in foster care what might the CASA program do to better the lives of children in foster care. Without hesitation, she exclaimed, “Make sure they have birthday cakes and get to blow out candles!” Soon after, Candles of Hope was established. A project that ensured that all children served by the CASA program would not only get a cake and candles, but also allow them to select what type of cake and icing they would like. “Giving our kids choices, even those as simple as selecting their cake, allows them to have a voice,” Chauvin stated.
Mission
To advocate for South Mississippi’s abused and neglected children by supporting volunteers who promote safety, permanency, and resilience.
Our Vision
A community where all children thrive in safe and nurturing families.
Our Values
- Each Child’s Right to a Safe, Nurturing and Permanent Home
- Best Practices in Quality Advocacy in accordance with National CASA Standards
- Responsibility to the community to Provide Mission Driven Services
