My name is Jennifer Kropko – In a former life, I was an Executive Producer for the Walt Disney Company and served in the United States Air Force for 17 years. My military service encouraged me to volunteer in my local community and give what resources I could. I carry that drive to give back to this day.
Nowadays, I’m a Voices for Children board member, proud mom of two, and a total softie when it comes to children in foster care and their stories. If you’ve ever teared up watching one of our Voices for Children videos, you’re in good company. That’s exactly how I got involved.
It all started at Starry Starry Night, their magical annual gala. Former board member Katie Sullivan, invited my husband and me as her guests, and I showed up not knowing what to expect. The evening was filled with the heart-wrenching and hope-filled stories from our Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASAs) and long-time supporters of the organization. We heard how CASAs have advocated to keep siblings in the same school after a placement shake-up or ensured that children living in foster care received proper dental care after years of neglect.
As a parent, those stories hit close to home. I couldn’t imagine my own kids without steady support, without someone advocating for their education, medical, or physical well-being, not to mention their emotional needs. Youth in foster care face those realities every day, with basic needs overlooked in a system stretched thin. That’s why, when Voices for Children asked me to join the board, my answer was a resounding yes!
These days, what lights me up most is sharing the good work of Voices for Children. I love inviting friends to our events, the Fostering Hope Golf Tournament, Uplifting Voices Luncheon, or the Starry Starry Night gala, and watching their eyes widen. “I had no idea,” they say. Then comes the magic… They ask about volunteering, donating, and how they can show up for these kids. It’s like planting seeds that grow into real change.
What catches people off guard is how simple the gaps are that our CASAs bridge. They show up in court, listen in visits, and speak up for what’s right. One steady voice can help create a brighter future for a child. If you’re thinking about getting involved by volunteering as a CASA, sponsoring an event, or just learning more, don’t hesitate. These kids deserve to know they’re seen, cherished, and worthy. Your yes could be their game-changer!
Ready to help? Head to speakupnow.org to learn how to get involved. We’re better together.
