Casey Cares Foundation

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Casey Cares Foundation was established in 2000 by Founder Casey Baynes with a mission to provide lasting memories for critically ill children and their families. Under Baynes’ continued leadership, the organization has grown into a comprehensive support system that serves more than 1,600 critically ill children and their families annually, including siblings.

The foundation operates on the fundamental belief that every child and family deserves joy, dignity and support during life’s most difficult moments, regardless of income, background or circumstance. Casey Cares combats inequality by offering all programs at no cost to families, ensuring those with limited resources can access experiences that bring comfort and connection. The organization works closely with hospitals and social workers in underserved communities to ensure no family is overlooked.

Casey Cares Foundation distinguishes itself through an intentional culture of female empowerment that extends from its leadership structure to the families it serves. As an all-female organization, the foundation creates a uniquely supportive work environment where mentorship happens both formally and organically. Baynes takes an active role in mentoring staff members, sharing her experience as a female entrepreneur and nonprofit leader while encouraging team growth in confidence, leadership and purpose.

The organization’s programs include hospital outreach, gift-giving initiatives and family activities designed to provide meaningful support and moments of joy for families navigating critical childhood illnesses. Many of the mothers Casey Cares supports are single parents or come from marginalized communities and the foundation tailors its outreach to meet them with compassion and cultural sensitivity.

Through personalized support programs, the organization helps mothers regain a sense of normalcy and hope during challenging times.

Casey Cares fosters professional development through cross-training, collaborative project leadership and open dialogue that encourages initiative and creativity. Team members are empowered to bring new ideas forward, take ownership of programs and build skills supporting long-term career growth in the nonprofit and caregiving sectors. The foundation maintains a flexible, supportive workplace that understands the unique challenges women often face, particularly those juggling caregiving or health-related responsibilities.

Looking ahead, Casey Cares Foundation plans to formalize mentorship opportunities within its team while creating structured pathways for leadership and professional growth. The organization aims to expand its outreach and hiring practices to include more women from underrepresented communities and grow its impact by expanding programs into additional hospitals and underserved areas.

Honoree profiles were written using an artificial intelligence program and supported by honoree nominations, applications and letters of recommendation. Each profile was reviewed, fact-checked and edited for accuracy by The Daily Record’s editorial staff.