Each summer, the Fostering Futures Youth Leadership Summit brings something powerful to life—connection, hope, and a space where youth in foster care can imagine a future beyond their current circumstances. This year, CASA of the Eastern Panhandle proudly hosted its 5th annual summit at Shepherd University, welcoming more than 20 teens for a weekend of reflection, growth, and possibility.
The theme? Empowering our youth to dream big, make meaningful connections, and begin building the futures they deserve.
“It was an honor to witness this weekend unfold behind my lens,” said Ryan Laspina, who documented the event through photo and video. “You could feel how impactful this experience was for these teens—there was real joy, real openness, and a real sense of belonging.”
A Weekend of Purpose and Possibility
The summit kicked off on Friday morning with orientation, as youth arrived on Shepherd University’s campus, checked into their dorm rooms, received their weekend materials, and met the team leads and peers they’d spend the weekend with. The tone was upbeat and hopeful—many of these youth had never been on a college campus before, and the opportunity to stay in dorms created a new sense of independence.
Friday evening brought a Career Fair where participants interviewed local professionals—an opportunity to build public speaking skills, explore interests, and visualize future career paths. Organizations and community members set up booths and fielded thoughtful questions from the teens.
“It was inspiring to see our youth grow in confidence, form new friendships, and step boldly outside their comfort zones,” shared Sara Gordon, Youth Support & Resource Coordinator.
Special thanks to all of the individuals and organizations who participated in the Career Fair:
- Jefferson Security Bank
- Read Aloud West Virginia
- Job Corps
- Briana Davis, CNA
- Berkeley County Sheriff’s Department
- Chris Waddell, Mechanic
- Child Law Office
- Pop Pop Soda Shop
- SC Studios
Friday closed with a trip to the Game Zone, where youth could enjoy arcade games, bowling, board games, and unstructured social time—something many don’t get the chance to experience in day-to-day life. These moments of joy and freedom were just as powerful as the workshops themselves.
Learning Through Connection
On Saturday, the group traveled to Horses with Hearts for a hands-on workshop focused on personality strengths, self-reflection, and animal therapy. Youth participated in team-building activities and exercises designed to help them better understand themselves, followed by barn tours and time interacting with the horses and farm animals.
The day ended at Rose Hill Farm, where attendees created vision boards—personal collages filled with affirmations, images, and words that captured the future they want to create. These vision boards offered more than a fun arts-and-crafts project—they helped young people put their dreams into words and images, reinforcing their power and potential.
“I was blown away by how open and vulnerable these teens were. You could tell they felt safe here,” one staff member reflected.
A Community That Shows Up
What made this weekend so powerful wasn’t just the workshops—it was the people. The youth were surrounded by adults who showed up with purpose, compassion, and consistency. The CASA-EP team poured their energy into the summit, offering mentorship, support, and encouragement every step of the way.
We’re so thankful to the team who made this weekend possible:
- Cari Lefeber
- Robert Gillette
- Sara Gordon
- Sarah Pauletti
- Dave Mulvihill
- Kim Naiman
- Michelle Sudduth
Behind the scenes, Teri Biebel, Kristen Vogel, and Mel Stotler kept the logistics running smoothly, and several CASA volunteers and board members gave their time and hearts to ensure the weekend was a success.
We’re also deeply grateful to the sponsors who helped fund and support this transformative event:
- ARGOS USA
- West Virginia First Foundation
- Highmark Foundation
Your investment helped create a space where foster youth felt seen, heard, and empowered—and that ripple effect will last long after the weekend ends.
Looking Ahead
The Fostering Futures Youth Leadership Summit is more than a summer event. It’s part of CASA-EP’s long-term commitment to the youth we serve—to not only advocate for them during their most vulnerable moments, but to uplift them, connect them, and remind them of their worth.
“I witnessed the quiet power of what we do: the way you adapted to each young person’s needs, how you created joy and structure, how you listened without judgment, and led with love. Watching the youth support one another — cheering each other on, showing kindness, and building a sense of camaraderie — was deeply moving,” said Michelle Sudduth, Executive Director of CASA-EP.
With every breakout session, every conversation, and every shared meal, these young people are breaking cycles and taking bold steps toward a better future.
Want to help build futures too?
CASA-EP is always looking for mentors, volunteers, and community partners. Whether you’re ready to give your time or lend your expertise, there’s a place for you in this work.
Learn more or sign up to get involved at www.mycasaep.org.
