What does a summer of kindness look like for a child in foster care?
At North Central Kansas CASA, it looks like cannonballs at the local pool, camp crafts with new friends, and the simple joy of being included.
We’re honored to name North Central Kansas CASA as one of our newest Kindness Grant recipients. With support from a $1,000 micro-grant, this grassroots project is helping provide summer swim passes and camp registration support for children involved in the child welfare system, many of whom are navigating big life transitions in small rural towns.
The goal is simple: to give kids in foster care the chance to experience a summer full of connection, freedom, and fun. Whether it’s splashing in the water or trying something new at day camp, these experiences offer something deeper than entertainment. They offer dignity. Belonging. And the opportunity to feel like any other kid.
This project was created by a long-time CASA advocate who has seen firsthand what it means for a child to be able to participate in “regular” childhood moments. Foster families do incredible work, but don’t always have the resources to cover summer extras—and that’s where a little kindness can go a long way!
With this grant, CASA staff are working directly with families to offer support based on each child’s needs and preferences. Some kids will head to the city pool. Others might attend a summer camp that sparks their curiosity. All of them will be reminded that they matter and are part of a community that sees them.
What stood out to our jury was the heart and practicality behind this idea. In a region where resources can be limited and distances are wide, this project makes a tangible difference in real time. And it aligns beautifully with all three of our foundation’s focus areas:
- Amplifying Voices of Youth by ensuring foster kids are included in their local communities
- Building Thriving Communities by strengthening bonds between children, families, and support networks
- Creating Pathways to Mental Health Resiliency by nurturing confidence, inclusion, and joy through play and connection
We’re so proud to support this project and the vision behind it. It’s a reminder that kindness doesn’t have to be big or flashy to be meaningful. Sometimes, it looks like a day at the pool, a new friend at camp, and a community that shows up.
Here’s to a summer of belonging for every kid.
➡️ Learn more about North Central Kansas CASA at nckcasa.org
Photo Courtesy of NCK Casa: “Our Family Advocate Jennifer providing information about child abuse and prevention to parents at one of our schools Literacy Night.”