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568
Children Served in the CASA
and Family Connections Programs
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167
CASA Volunteers Appointed
to Children
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2,367
Family Visitations and Safe Exchange Services Provided
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381
Parents, CASA Volunteers and Professionals Trained in TBRI
| | SUPPORT THIS CRITICAL WORK | | |
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We are thrilled to reveal this year's powerful keynote speaker: MelissaRoshan Potter (also affectionately known as MelRo). As unique as her name, MelRo is an uncommon talent who is passionate about the work of CASA organizations. MelRo has modeled internationally for more than twenty years, but what this respected servant leader is most proud of, is owning the title of SurTHRIVER. From the days of her tumultuous childhood in the foster care system, MelRo knew she was meant for more. She not only embarked on her own journey toward healing, but is committed to inspiring others to do the same.
With features on CNN, TED Talks, and The OWN Network, and campaigns championing youth across continents, MelRo brings truth, transformative energy, and healing hope to every stage she graces.
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Join us for an unforgettable evening that brings our community together to celebrate the power of advocacy, uplift the voices of children, and raise critical funds to ensure every family in Larimer County has the support they need to heal, grow, and thrive together.
With individual tickets, table opportunities, and sponsorships available, there are many ways to be part of this meaningful night!
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When Mark signed up for CASA of Larimer County’s Trust-Based Relational Intervention® (TBRI®) Caregiver Package, he wasn’t just thinking about himself—he was thinking about the children in his life. As a father who grew up navigating significant trauma and time in foster care, Mark carried a deep awareness that the past doesn’t always stay in the past, especially when you’re parenting.
Through the TBRI® virtual classroom, Mark joined other caregivers from across Northern Colorado to learn, reflect, and
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practice trauma-informed tools designed to build stronger, healthier relationships with children. As the curriculum unfolded, something unexpected happened: Mark began learning more about himself. He shared that understanding how his own trauma shaped his reactions helped him recognize how those patterns were showing up with his kids and, importantly, how to begin breaking the cycle.
By the end of the Caregiver Package, Mark felt more confident, more empathetic, and better equipped to parent with realistic expectations and compassion. He’s since recommended the class to other single dads in his church community who are struggling to connect with their children. “This helps you have empathy with your kids,” he shared, “and have reasonable expectations.”
TBRI® is helping parents and caregivers like Mark understand both their children’s needs and their own—creating opportunities for connection, felt safety, and healing. With CASA of Larimer County standing beside them, families are building healthier futures together, one class at a time.
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Healing Happens in Community
Your support ensures caregivers like Mark can access trauma-informed tools and compassionate support that strengthen families from the inside out.
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Melanie Holzner
When Melanie became a CASA Volunteer, she was seeking a hands-on way to support children in her community. After attending our CASA 101 info session, she knew it was the right fit.
Now on her second case, Melanie serves as a consistent advocate for four siblings between the ages of three and nine. From the beginning, she focused on building trust through presence and reliability—spending time with the children together, while also intentionally carving out one-on-one time with the oldest child who had often been placed in a parental role.
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Beyond visits, Melanie stays closely connected to each child’s school progress and attendance and maintains strong working relationships with families, teachers, caseworkers, and the Guardian ad Litem. “It takes a united front that’s 100% focused on the care and well-being of the child,” she shared. “It’s a journey and a process that feels holistic.”
The time Melanie spends with the children is filled with moments of connection and joy—arcade games, pickleball, imaginative play, crafting Christmas ornaments, and simply being present. For Melanie, one of the most meaningful parts of her role has been witnessing the resilience and growth of a young child navigating circumstances no child should have to face. “Seeing their strength despite the odds stacked against them—that’s incredibly powerful.”
Melanie credits CASA of Larimer County’s training, staff leadership, and ongoing support for helping her feel prepared and supported in this work. Her story is a powerful reminder that consistency, compassion, and showing up again and again can make a lasting difference in a child’s life.
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CASA Volunteers like Melanie are making a difference everyday in Larimer County. You can too!
Contact Cassie Maschal, CASA Program Manager, to learn more!
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Valeria Silva Woodruff
3rd Anniversary
TBRI Program Manager and
TBRI Practitioner
We are so grateful for Val's leadership of the TBRI Program. She is passionate about providing a safe space for parents to build understanding and skills to support their children and family's healing. Thank you, Val!
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Lori Davis
2nd Anniversary
CASA Case Supervisor and
TBRI Practitioner
Lori provides thoughtful guidance and support to CASA Volunteers throughout their cases. She also trains CASA Volunteers in TBRI tools to improve their advocacy. We are so grateful that Lori is part of our team!
Thank you, Lori!
| | Our team is growing, we are excited to welcome... | | |
Carolyn Murphy
Development Manager
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Kari Lunde
Director of Program Impact
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Myah Taylor
Family Case Manager
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Jessi Olson
Program Volunteer Coordinator
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CASA of Larimer County is a registered 501(c)(3)
nonprofit organization (EIN: 84-1048149).
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