GSW organizations raise over $5,000 for CASA, helping foster children’s Christmas wishes come true

AMERICUS, GA – (December 19, 2024) – This holiday season, organizations at Georgia Southwestern State University (GSW) came together in a heartwarming display of generosity, raising funds and collecting toys for the foster children served by SOWEGA CASA, helping make their Christmas wishes come true. 

GSW’s Staff Senate raised over $700 from faculty and staff, using the funds to purchase seven $100 gift cards, specifically for teens aged 16-17, ensuring that older foster children had the chance to experience the joy of the season. 

The GSW Brotherhood, a living and learning community dedicated to Black male scholars, contributed nearly $500 through their efforts, demonstrating the power of unity and giving.

And most impressive, Cohort 6 of the President Jimmy Carter Leadership Program organized a series of fundraising events and partnered with their high schools to donate more than $3,600 in gift cards, toys, and monetary items to SOWEGA CASA.

“This year’s Toy and Gift Card Drive supporting our partners with SOWEGA CASA has been extraordinary,” said Mikela Barlow, coordinator for the President Jimmy Carter Leadership Program. “From day one, these first-year students demonstrated the power of collective leadership, turning their passion for service into tangible action. Watching them work together—from planning to executing the drive with unmatched energy and commitment—was inspiring. This group did not just rise to the challenge; they redefined what is possible when 20 leaders come together to make a difference.” 

These first-year students organized a variety of successful events, including a raffle, percentage nights at local business (1800 and Scoops), a fashion show, a pickleball tournament, a game night, a 3v3 basketball tournament, a pie-in-the-face, and boo grams. 

“The CASA Toy Drive was one of my most challenging yet most rewarding experiences,” shared Yeilin Roque of Hinesville, Ga. “We received more support than we could have asked from students, staff, and community members. Most importantly, we supported SOWEGA CASA’s efforts in giving more than 500 children in 17 surrounding counties the Christmas they deserve, which was the most meaningful part. The amount of work we put into this year’s fundraiser was utterly worth it, knowing that there will be more smiling children on Christmas this year.”

Cassidy Brunner from Dillsburg, Pa. added, “This whole fundraiser was a whole new experience for me. Planning with 18 other people was not easy, but it made a big difference. Without the help and ideas of others, we would not have been as successful. I am so thankful that we were able to raise money for children as well as host events on campus. This opportunity brought so many people together and memories that will last forever.” 

Analiese Bevans of Dallas, Ga. expressed, “Being able to help plan and put on these events allowed me to show love for others during this holiday season and help give a deserving Christmas to kids who may not have had one without the fabulous donations of our community.” 

“The partnership with Georgia Southwestern this Christmas season has been truly inspiring,” said Maggie McGruther with the Southwest Georgia Children’s Alliance. “Their efforts have brought so much joy to the children we serve, reminding them that they are not alone and deeply cared for. Seeing the GSW community come together to support CASA’s mission highlights the profound impact we can make when we work together to advocate for children in foster care. We are thankful for their dedication and generosity during this special time of year.”