CASA celebrates 10 years of In Her Shoes, raises more than $140,000

Published 9:18 pm Thursday, November 5, 2026

Citizens Against Spouse Abuse (CASA) celebrated a milestone evening on October 3, hosting the 10th Anniversary of its annual In Her Shoes fundraiser. Inspired by the glamour of the Academy Awards, this year’s event celebrated a decade of community compassion, generosity, and commitment to making a lasting difference in the lives of survivors of domestic and sexual violence.

The milestone celebration was a tremendous success, raising $140,017, with net revenue of $106,434 to support CASA’s programs and services for survivors and their children.

For 43 years, CASA has worked alongside survivors, helping them regain control of their lives through education, advocacy, and coordination of community resources. The In Her Shoes event has become an important part of that mission, bringing together individuals, businesses, and community partners who believe in creating safer futures for those impacted by domestic and sexual violence.

“Ten years of In Her Shoes represents ten years of compassion in action,” said representatives of CASA. “The generosity and continued support of this community have helped us make a lasting impact on the lives of survivors. We are incredibly grateful to everyone who has walked alongside us on this journey.”

In 2025, CASA served 784 men, women, and children, answered 1,175 emergency hotline calls, provided 4,711 nights of safe shelter, and delivered 5,831 hours of advocacy and support. Behind each of these numbers is a person whose life has been touched by compassion, support, and the opportunity for a safer future.

Mr. In Her Shoes 2026 Contest Raises More Than $25,000

One of the highlights of this year’s fundraiser was the highly anticipated Mr. In Her Shoes 2026 Contest, featuring contestants Mark Conley, Chris Sidener, and Josh Cornine. Through their enthusiasm, community involvement, and fundraising efforts, the three contestants collectively raised an incredible $25,707 in support of CASA and its mission.

After an exciting competition, Josh Cornine was crowned Mr. In Her Shoes 2026! CASA extends its heartfelt appreciation to Mark, Chris, and Josh for stepping up, rallying their supporters, and demonstrating that making a difference sometimes means stepping into a pair of heels for a great cause.

Their dedication and willingness to champion CASA helped make the 10th Anniversary celebration even more successful.

Celebrating Community Partners and Outstanding Service

A highlight of the evening was the presentation of awards recognizing individuals and organizations whose dedication and generosity have helped advance CASA’s mission.

The 2026 award recipients included:

-Rising Star of Hope: Cesar and Minerva Marin, recognized for their outstanding contributions to CASA through service projects and their commitment to supporting survivors.

-Community Champion Award: Katy Trail Community Health, honored for its exceptional partnership with CASA and its commitment to improving services for survivors and the community.

-Best Supporting Advocate: Joylynn Allard, CASA Therapist, recognized for her teamwork, leadership, and meaningful contributions to the lives of survivors.

-Turf D. Martin Service Award: Chad North and Travis St. Cyr, honored for their dedicated volunteer service and commitment to helping others. Formerly known as the Volunteer of the Year Award, this recognition was renamed in memory of late CASA Board President Turf D. Martin to honor his legacy of generosity and community service.

-Lifetime Impact – Harlan Albright Community Leadership Award: Joe Beykirch and the Family of Bob and Dorothy “Dot” Beykirch, recognized for more than three decades of extraordinary support for CASA. The Beykirch family played a pivotal role in helping CASA secure its shelter facility through a capital campaign in 1994. Their continued financial contributions, in-kind donations, and volunteer service have helped strengthen CASA and its ability to serve survivors for generations.

-Courage Award: Jennifer Jones, honored for her bravery and perseverance in overcoming domestic and sexual violence. Through her journey, Jennifer has become a role model and mentor to other survivors, demonstrating the strength and courage it takes to build a life free from abuse.

The Impact Continues

While the 10th Anniversary of In Her Shoes marked an important milestone, CASA’s work continues every day. The funds raised will help sustain the organization’s vital services, including its 24-hour crisis hotline, emergency shelter, court and medical advocacy, counseling, children’s services, support groups, and other resources that empower survivors to move toward safety and independence.

CASA serves Pettis, Benton, and Saline Counties and remains committed to standing beside survivors for as long as they need support.

“Every call answered, every night of safe shelter provided, and every survivor supported represents compassion turned into action,” CASA shared. “We are grateful to a community that continues to believe in our mission and understands that together, we can create an impact that lasts a lifetime.”

For more information about CASA, its services, or ways to support its mission, visit www.casa-sedalia.org or call the 24-hour hotline at 800-894-1151 or 660-827-5555.

Release courtesy of CASA.