Big City Bash Aspen: A Night That Felt Like CASA
By Jen Gibson, Events & Communications Manager
I’m still soaking it all in.
Because of your generosity at Big City Bash: Aspen – An Après-Ski Gala, we raised $284,404—40% over budget—to support CASA of McHenry County and the children in our community who need a voice.
I love planning every “city,” but Aspen felt the most like CASA. Warm, welcoming, and quietly powerful. I was honestly in awe watching the vision in my head come to life—an intentional après-ski experience where we hoped you felt like you were walking into a cozy lodge after a day on the slopes… and stepping into a room full of friends.
The night had this incredible rhythm—Keith Jones from Sayre & Jones dazzled the room with our auctions and kept everyone moving with games, and guests explored our new ski lounge area from MDM Entertainment before packing the dance floor to our first-ever 8-piece band, Heatwave. The energy truly felt like magic and sparkle.
But Big City Bash is more than a party. Some of the most powerful moments were the ones that reminded us why we were there. Our actors portrayed a real-life foster care scenario that brought many in the room to tears. Then Becky shared a passionate message about where your dollars actually go—and Fund-A-Need became an honest, emotional moment of generosity that left me speechless.
Thank you for bringing your energy. Thank you for believing in our mission. Thank you for making Aspen feel like home for one night—and for helping CASA continue to be that steady, consistent presence for children all year long.
Now the question is… what city will we choose next?
Wherever it is, I know this: we’ll bring the warmth, the welcome, and the bold impact that makes CASA what it is.
Because that’s who we are.