U.S. Engineering CEO Tyler Nottberg and his wife Leigh participated in the groundbreaking ceremony for the new CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocacy) building in Kansas City on November 16, 2021. This expansion, “Space to Thrive,” will double the size of the organization’s physical space and help them reach their new goal of serving 1,500 children a year by 2023. That’s an increase of 250 children served per year.

The groundbreaking highlighted Jackson County CASA’s new building—a house right next to their existing building. The interior of the house will undergo some renovations before the organization moves in. After renovations, the neighboring buildings will combine for a 10,700-square-foot space for employees and volunteers.

“Leigh and I are honored to be a part of this effort, and we’re humbled by the amazing work that the Bussings have done over the year, as well as the work that all the CASA volunteers and advocates and staff members have done to serve tens of thousands of children and families in this community,” Tyler said at the groundbreaking. He and Leigh are honorary co-chairs for Space to Thrive. Kathy and Gary Bussing are the Campaign Chairs.

“CASA advocates provide a voice, and the need for those voices is not diminishing,” he continued. “The work that CASA does is vitally important to the future of the children and families who need it. Tell your families, tell your colleagues, tell your friends – they can invest with all of us in this effort, which is vital to the interests of this great city and region that we’re all proud to call home.”

The CASA program was established in 1977 to help give abused children a voice in court. Jackson County CASA started operating in 1983 and helped 1,140 children in 2020 alone. The organization trains volunteers to be advocates for abused children ages birth to 21 who enter the Jackson County Family Court System.

Tyler and Leigh got involved with CASA almost a decade ago because of U.S. Engineering’s Chief People Officer, Rebecca David. Rebecca, who began her career as a social worker, uses her platform at U.S. Engineering to help CASA and other charities. She continues to inspire team members to volunteer and serve with CASA.

Tyler describes Jackson County CASA and its leadership: “They shine light where there is darkness. They give hope where there might not be any. They’re on the front lines every day to help.”

If you would like to help shine the light, consider donating to Space to Thrive, and help Jackson County CASA reach their goal of $3.7 million to serve 1,500 children a year.