7th Circuit CASA staff members pictured in 2024.
The number of children entering state custody due to abuse and neglect increased by over 20 percent in Pennington, Fall River, and Custer County between 2020 and 2024. In many of these cases, the child’s guardian had developed a coping mechanism, like substance abuse, that created an unsafe environment for their child.
Seventh Circuit CASA, a Rapid City nonprofit, provides court-appointed volunteers to advocate for the best interests of these children. For many children, this advocate is the only consistent adult presence among a series of case workers, foster parents and lawyers.
In 2024, BHACF awarded a Capacity Building Grant to Seventh Circuit CASA to fund tokens of appreciation for their volunteers and staff. These personalized gifts have ranged from a lunch outing to a custom Cribbage board. The goal is to create a safe, trusting environment where everyone feels valued and celebrated.
“If we are trying to provide a sense of safety and permanence of the children, how do we do that for our staff and volunteers?”
Kehala two bulls, executive director of seventh circuit casa
This respect and attention trickles down to the caring way that staff and volunteers support their court-appointed child.
“When you have one or more safe, stable adults, it dramatically increases your resilient capacities, which help you cope with your trauma and become an independent advocate for your future,” she said.
Two Bulls remembers one child who maintained the same volunteer advocate for over ten years. “He got to experience a really special and long-term, caring friendship” with his advocate, she said. The goal is that every child gets to experience a fulfilling relationship with their advocate.
Rapid City residents from all walks of life can volunteer to become an advocate. “The experience itself is a lot of joy,” Two Bulls said. “It’s about ensuring that kids get the joyful childhood experiences that we all deserve.”
Apply for a Capacity Building Grant
Starting Feb. 1, Black Hills nonprofits can apply for a $5,000 Capacity Building Grant to strengthen their mission-focused work.
Capacity Building Supports:
- Measurements and Evaluation
- Partnership Development
- Strategic Planning
- Board Engagement/Development
- Marketing and Donor Engagement
- Technology Needs and Technical Support
- Staff Development/Retention