CASA of Hancock County held its 3rd Annual Mardi Gras Gala on Saturday, February 1st at the Bay St. Louis Community Hall. The event raised over $24,000 to support the continued child advocacy efforts of children, who through no fault of their own, are in foster care as a result of abuse and/or neglect. The evening included a fabulous dinner prepared by the “CASA Cooks”. (CASA Cooks: Jimmie Ladner & Cheryl Ladner, Kelly Cannon, Ernie Zimmerman, John Zimmerman, M.J. Krankey, Jack & Denise Andry, Jimmy Osbourn, Eddie Sanders, Kent Conn & Owen Johnson) A silent and live auction with over 230 items was also on display. A special thank you to Di Fillhart of the Starfish Café who served as emcee, Dave Mayley who donated his DJ Services, and Pat Murphy & the Jumpin’ Jukes of MS for providing the entertainment for the evening. A highlight of the evening was the crowing of the Krewe of CASA’s king and queen. CASA royalty is selected each year and the honor is given to two individuals who have gone and beyond for children in our community. Congratulations to the Krewe of CASA’s King Jimmie Ladner and his Queen Karen Aderer.

CASA of Hancock County is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization that utilizes trained community members to advocate for children who through no fault of their own are involved in the complex and overburdened child welfare and youth court systems. The organization relies on the communities support to continue this work.

For more information on becoming a CASA advocate or making a tax-deductible contribution please visit our website www.casahancockcounty.org or call us at 228-344-0419.