Agency Fundholder Spotlight: CASA of Jefferson County
YouthBridge Community Foundation of Greater St. Louis offers endowment building services to help nonprofit agencies generate income for longer-term initiatives. Delivering access to low-cost, high-quality investment solutions and education on endowments is only the start. YouthBridge assists with the entire process – from establishing an endowment fund to financial reporting that creates the greatest impact. YouthBridge also provides matching funds each year to child-serving nonprofits that start or add to their endowment!
Organizations with endowment funds at YouthBridge are called Agency Fundholders. Each month we spotlight one Agency Fundholder to highlight these meaningful relationships. This month we spoke with Alicia Knickman, CEO of CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates) of Jefferson County.
Q. How has your endowment with YouthBridge expanded the possibilities for the future of CASA of Jefferson County?
A. Having an endowment has helped us to have a long-term vision. Often, small nonprofit organizations get consumed with the day-to-day workload at the expense of planning for the future. An endowment allows for big dreams with the security of stability.
Q. What motivates your organization to make additional contributions to its endowment?
A. We continue to make contributions to our endowment because we recognize that it is as important to save for the future as it is to provide in the present. Funding stability motivates us to be prepared and grow our vision, which inspires others to contribute and invest in our plans as well.
Q. How would you respond if another nonprofit leader asked whether starting an endowment with YouthBridge is worthwhile – and why?
A. I would definitely encourage others to establish an endowment with YouthBridge. We researched extensively before partnering with YouthBridge and felt that this choice best suited our needs as a small organization. With YouthBridge, we have the advantage of experienced guidance and increased visibility to share our mission with donors.
Q. Do you have any exciting news or upcoming events to share?
A. We are in the process of planning for our 9th Annual Gala for Children, which is our largest fundraiser. We are reimagining the event this year and are excited to bring a fresh, fun event to our supporters. We are also revising our recruitment process, and we look forward to serving more kiddos in foster care who need support and advocacy in 2026!
If you would like to learn more about CASA of Jefferson County or donate to it, please contact Allison McDonald, Grants Manager. If you are interested in becoming a part of the YouthBridge family/partnership and exploring your charitable giving options, please contact Andranique Ellis, Director of Philanthropy.