On October 4, 2025, Voices for Children celebrated 45 years of advocacy at Starry Starry Night on the stunning Heron Lawn at the Park Hyatt Aviara Resort. More than 400 attendees were immersed in an “under the sea” experience that brought to life the spirit of the Starfish Story, a powerful reminder that changing just one life at a time can make all the difference.

Emceed by CBS 8’s Neda Iranpour, guests were treated to a vibrant cocktail reception, an inspiring program featuring compelling stories of impact, an exciting live auction, and dazzling live entertainment by Collective Music.

We were proud to recognize CASA Dr. Cynthia Avery for her unwavering advocacy and the deep, lasting bond she built with Jerome — now a thriving, independent adult embarking on a career in law enforcement.

We also honored CASA Kelly Gilliland, whose steadfast support has been life-changing for young Charlie, a 10-year-old neurodivergent boy who is legally blind and has been flourishing in his forever home since his adoption two years ago. Their stories powerfully illustrate the lifelong difference a CASA can make.

Thanks to the incredible generosity of our supporters and the leadership of event chairs Stacy and Joshua Kim, Jenny and Mike Kropko, Katie and Mike Nicoletti, and Jamie and David Oberto, we raised critical funds to continue providing vital advocacy to children in our community who have experienced abuse and neglect.

 Voices for Children believes every child deserves a safe, permanent home. To ensure children in foster care have every opportunity to achieve stability, we match them with caring volunteers – called Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASAs) – who advocate for their best interests. For a child who has experienced abuse or neglect, a CASA is someone who listens, who shows up, and who helps them navigate a scary and difficult time in their lives. For 45 years, Voices for Children has recruited, trained, and supported CASAs to advocate for children in San Diego’s foster care system. As the only agency in San Diego County designated by the court to provide CASA volunteers, our vision is to provide a CASA to every child in foster care who needs one.