Visits made possible through proceeds from Commissioner’s Farm to Fork Dinner
ELIZABETHTOWN, Ky. – Thanks to proceeds from the first annual Commissioner’s Farm to Fork Dinner, 99 children served by CASA of the Heartland were provided with free admission to the Kentucky State Fair this year. During their visits, these children had the opportunity to explore the diverse range of agricultural education opportunities offered throughout the fair's duration.
CASA of the Heartland serves abused and neglected children in the region by recruiting, training, and supporting a network of volunteers who work as court-appointed special advocates. The organization serves all of Hardin, LaRue, Meade, Breckinridge, and Grayson Counties as well as the Fort Knox area.
Hosted by the Kentucky CASA Network (KCN) in partnership with Kentucky Commissioner of Agriculture Jonathan Shell, the Commissioner’s Farm to Fork Dinner took place at the Kentucky Exposition Center on Aug. 14, one day before the opening of the State Fair. Proceeds from the event will be part of a new KCN initiative to provide direct economic support to children in foster care, allowing opportunities to participate and engage in agricultural tourism throughout the state.
In addition to providing free State Fair attendance to children served by CASA, the fund will provide other types of educational opportunities and experiences for foster youth to learn about and experience Kentucky's agricultural roots.
“CASA's mission goes beyond court assistance. We provide therapeutic, educational, and personalized attention to help children heal from trauma and thrive,” said CASA of the Heartland Executive Director Michelle Kail. “Providing these fun and educational opportunities is important in fostering a sense of connection and curiosity among the children we serve.”