Kristi Bauer: Championing CASA in Bastrop, Fayette & Lee Counties

T.j. Johnson
Jul 7
2 min read

Kristi Bauer, the Executive Director of CASA of Bastrop, Fayette, & Lee Counties, is the driving force behind advocacy for children in foster care across these Central Texas communities. Since at least 2023 she has led efforts to ensure that every child removed from their home due to abuse or neglect is supported until they find a safe, permanent living situation

🏛️ CASA's Mission & Reach

CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates) recruits, screens, trains, and supports community volunteers who speak up for children in the child protection system. Operating in Bastrop, Fayette, and Lee Counties, CASA ensures that children’s voices are heard in court and that their best interests are represented (casabfl.org).

📣 Leadership with Heart

Under Kristi’s leadership:

Full Coverage Goal: CASA is committed to serving every child removed by CPS in the three-county region (casabfl.org).
Community Partnerships: Kristi collaborates with faith-based and civic organizations—like the “Stand Sunday” initiative—to raise awareness and encourage involvement (elgincourier.com).
Meaningful Support: Kristi emphasizes that these children deserve “every possible chance to succeed in life” (elgincourier.com).

👏 Impact Through Advocacy

CASA volunteer advocates are assigned to individual children or sibling groups, offering consistent mentoring and representation throughout legal proceedings. They investigate their assigned cases, interview relevant parties, and advise judges on each child’s wellbeing and permanent solution (elgincourier.com).

In 2022, CASA served 187 children—a number reflecting significant local need (elgincourier.com).

🌟 Community Engagement & Events

Stand Sunday: Kristi encouraged churches to participate in this national day of prayer and action for foster children, emphasizing community responsibility (elgincourier.com).
Volunteer Trainings: CASA periodically hosts training sessions and open houses—most recently expanding volunteer ranks in December 2023 and February 2024 (elgincourier.com).
Fundraisers: Events like “Saturday Night Lights & Casino Nights” generate essential funding for CASA’s mission (communityimpact.com).

💬 A Message from the Director

In Kristi’s own words:

“These children desperately need someone to stand by their side to speak up for their needs, safety, and permanence.” (casabfl.org, casabfl.org)

Her invitation extends beyond volunteers:

“Whether you’re religious or not … we hope you’ll consider ways you can support these children … like becoming a CASA volunteer.” (elgincourier.com)

📞 How You Can Help

Volunteer: Adult community members can apply online, complete the CASA training program, and partner with judges to give foster children a stronger voice.
Donate or Sponsor: Monetary gifts, monthly “Bridge Builder” support, and event participation all bolster CASA’s work.
Spread the Word: Invite your organization, church, or network to support foster care advocacy and awareness.

🔍 Final Take

Under Kristi Bauer’s dedicated leadership, CASA of Bastrop, Fayette & Lee Counties lives out its mission: to give abused or neglected children a consistent advocate, a champion on their side, and a better shot at a safe, permanent home. Her belief in community collaboration and her unwavering advocacy ensure that vulnerable children aren’t just seen—they’re heard and helped.

To get involved or learn more: