You Are Cordially Invited

CASA Kane County invites you to attend the 32nd Annual Children’s Champion Celebration Gala — Light Their Way — on Saturday, March 7, 2026, at The Q Center in St. Charles. This distinguished evening will bring together community leaders, advocates, and supporters in a shared commitment to protecting and uplifting children experiencing foster care. Guests will enjoy an elegant dinner, exceptional auction opportunities, and meaningful program highlights that honor the mission and impact of CASA Kane County. Your participation directly supports the recruitment, training, and supervision of Court Appointed Special Advocates, ensuring every child has a dedicated voice throughout the court process and beyond. We look forward to welcoming you to a memorable evening of purpose, impact, and hope as we work together to light the way toward a brighter future for every child. *Ticket sales have closed. Please email NatalieB@casakanecounty.org with inquiries*

Support the CASA Mission While Promoting Your Business

Marketing Sponsorship Opportunities - click here!

Evening Highlights

5:15 pm: Registration opens 

  • Champagne Reception
  • VIP Table Upgrade Auction
  • Live Auction 
  • Grand Raffle
  • Silent Auction (closes at 9:30 pm)
  • Luminary Reserve Bourbon Bar
  • Travel for Charity Opportunity
  • Dinner with choice of entree (select when purchasing tickets)
  • Program
  • Live Music from Soda & Dancing

*Event Attire is Black Tie optional

 

Location

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The Q Center: 1405 N 5th Avenue,                                      St. Charles, IL 60174

2026 Honorees

Children's Champion Foundation: Hansen-Furnas Foundation

The Hansen-Furnas Foundation has been a steadfast champion of CASA Kane County since its earliest days. Rooted in a legacy that began in 1960 with founders William Carlyle Furnas and his wife, Leto, the foundation was built on a belief that education, opportunity, and community support create lasting change. That vision continues today through generous scholarships and charitable giving that strengthen local organizations and uplift those most in need.

As our 2026 Children’s Champion Foundation, the Hansen-Furnas Foundation is honored for its long-standing commitment to ensuring that children in foster care are seen, heard, and protected. By supporting CASA Kane County, the foundation has helped ensure that vulnerable children have strong voices—both in the courtroom and in the community—and brighter paths forward because of it.

Honorary Couple: Dr. Herb and Mrs. Mary Stith

Dr. Herb Stith and his wife, Mary, have been devoted members of the Tri-Cities community since 1985 and generous supporters of CASA Kane County for more than 25 years. Dr. Stith, an Illinois native, has practiced oral and maxillofacial surgery in Geneva for four decades and now proudly works alongside his daughter, Rebecca. Mary, originally from Michigan, built a distinguished nursing career before dedicating herself to family, service, and advocacy.

Mary has served as a CASA/GAL volunteer since 2011, standing as a consistent, compassionate voice for children in foster care during some of their most vulnerable moments. Inspired by a neighbor and former CASA Kane County educator, Mary’s unwavering commitment reflects the very heart of CASA’s mission.

Together, Herb and Mary have raised four children and cherish time with their four grandchildren. Guided by faith, family, and service, they exemplify what it means to light the way for children—ensuring they are seen, heard, and never alone.

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New for 2026: Choose Your Entree

*Must be selected by February 26

Burgundy Braised Short Rib: Root Vegetables, Glazed Shallots, Burgundy Reduction, Caramelized Onion and Chive Buttermilk Mashed Potatoes, Marinated Roasted Spring Vegetables

Marinated Pan-Seared Chicken Breast with Olive-Caper Tapenade, Madeira-Creme, Potato Au Gratin Dauphinoise

Vegan Entree: Wild Mushroom and Asparagus Risotto Creminis, Porcini, Truffle Essence, Asparagus, Roasted Marinated Spring Vegetables

Montage Salon: Event Hair and/or Makeup

Montage Salon and Spa is a passionate and creative team that works together to achieve your skin, hair, and all beauty needs located in downtown Geneva. They have created TWO special offers to help you to look your best for the gala! 

  • Minimum Donation $75: Hair OR Makeup session (value $100)
  • Minimum Donation $100: Hair AND Makeup session (value $200)

*The team is generously volunteering their services, so your donation will be donated to CASA Kane County

Please call the salon at 630.488.7198 to reserve your appointment.

 

Men's Wearhouse Offer

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Auction conducted by Dan Campbell of Raising Paddles

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  • To support our mission while promoting your business, please select "Marketing Sponsorships" tab at the top of this page.
  • If you would like to donate an item or experience to the auction, please contact Amy at AmyM@casakanecounty.org or 630.444.1305.

CASA Kane County: 2025 Mission Partners

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