IMPACT
in Rapid City
Your Generosity in Action
Through the dedication of a caring advocate from CASA of the 7th Circuit, a young girl’s journey toward confidence and happiness is shining brighter each day.
Recently, her advocate spent the morning taking her on a simple but meaningful outing. Dressed warmly in a hat, gloves, and jacket, she eagerly buckled herself into her car seat—an impressive new skill she had recently mastered. With pride, she zipped up her coat and confidently declared, “I can do it!”
The day began with brunch at McDonald’s. With a healthy appetite, she happily enjoyed her meal. But the meal was more than just food—it became a moment of connection. Her advocate reflected, “I realized that sharing a meal together is one of the best ways to engage with her. It is much more fun to talk with her when I am across the table from her while having a meal.”
After brunch, they visited Sioux Park to explore the newly remodeled tennis courts. Although it was too cold and windy to play tennis, the chilly weather didn’t slow her down. She joyfully ran around the park, laughing as her advocate jogged to keep up.
During their outing, they shared a children’s book titled What Makes a Rainbow. As they read, her advocate discovered that she knew all the colors of the rainbow—a heartwarming reminder of her growing independence and curiosity.
Perhaps the most uplifting part of the day was how it ended. When she returned home to her foster family, she was still smiling, happy, and full of energy—a reassuring sign that she feels safe, loved, and supported in her current environment.
This small but meaningful outing is a reminder of how impactful CASA advocates can be. By fostering moments of joy, growth, and connection, CASA helps children like her thrive, even in the face of challenges.
Thanks to generous donors like you, United Way of the Black Hills is able to make stories like this possible!