Reds and Guardians families increase efforts to support Ohio CASA Network, Ohio children for second year

Support from both teams will allow Ohio CASA to support local programs, children in need; “Ohio CASA at the Ballpark” campaign continues to show support for volunteers, families

Family members of Cincinnati Reds and Cleveland Guardians players collaborated for the second year in a row to support the Ohio CASA Network and Ohio children, doubling their efforts in 2026. Their combined campaigns totaled more than $32,000, allowing Ohio CASA to support local programs and children in need.

Through a series of collaborative efforts, including online auctions, game-day experiences, and social media campaigns, they raised critical funds and increased awareness for CASA programs, helping ensure children in foster care have dedicated advocates in their corner.

In 2025, the spouses from both teams raised more than $16,000, culminating in an inaugural charity softball game in Cleveland.

This year’s softball game, hosted by the Reds Wives with support from the Reds Community Fund, was broadcast live by FOX19 from the Reds Youth Academy and featured a first pitch by CASA for Clermont Kids volunteer Ana Warnick.

The teams, led by Jordyn Pagán, wife of Reds relief pitcher Emilio Pagán, and Samantha Kwan, wife of Guardians outfielder Steven Kwan, raised more than $32,000 for Ohio CASA—nearly double the amount raised last year.

The Reds’ portion of the proceeds was presented to Ohio CASA representatives during an on-field ceremony before a Reds game in August.

Pagán praised Ohio CASA’s mission and the ongoing support.

“It’s been great, [CASA representatives] have been to games in Cleveland and here,” Pagán told MLB.com. “They do so much for the kids in foster care and the court system, so we’re excited that they get almost $33,000, and they can do a lot with that I hope.”

Kwan also explained to MLB.com what drew the wives to the CASA mission, noting her connection before the partnership began.

“I worked with them in college and then post-grad, so CASA is really near to my heart,” Kwan said. “They do such great things for the Ohio community, so we’re so lucky to have this platform and be able to do good with this.”

The growing partnership between Ohio CASA and the spouses and significant others of Ohio’s MLB teams was among the highlights of the “Ohio CASA at the Ballpark” campaign in 2026, bringing the CASA mission to a larger audience and encouraging more people to volunteer. Ohio CASA launched this campaign in 2024.

The statewide campaign celebrates CASA volunteers and the children they serve, raising awareness about CASA volunteer work.

Throughout the summer, the Cincinnati Reds, Cleveland Guardians, Columbus Clippers, Toledo Mud Hens, Dayton Dragons, and Southern Ohio Copperheads each hosted a “CASA Day” game. Hundreds of CASA volunteers and families gathered at the games in matching blue CASA shirts and took part in festivities, including throwing first pitches, delivering game balls, and participating in on-field parades.

“CASA volunteers are dedicated to the children they serve, so it’s wonderful to see them recognized in their communities,” said Ohio CASA Executive Director Doug Stephens. “Our goal is to make sure a CASA volunteer is available to every child in Ohio who needs one, so campaigns like this help more people understand how they can be part of making that hope a reality.”

The “CASA Day” games welcomed more than 1,400 attendees, with a majority of Ohio’s 48 local programs participating. The campaign was made possible through private funds.

The blue CASA t-shirts worn by at the ballgames featured the logo of the Ohio Department of Children and Youth (DCY) on the back. DCY has been a long-time supporter of CASA volunteer work statewide, prompting Ohio CASA to highlight their support and partnership. DCY’s mission is to promote positive, lifelong outcomes for Ohio youth through early intervention, quality education, and family support programs.

DCY is also a champion level supporter of Ohio CASA’s annual Celebrate Kids! Conference, which prioritizes high-quality child welfare training for CASA volunteers, attorneys, caseworkers, and court staff members.

Following the games, local CASA program staff reported increased interest in CASA volunteer opportunities.

The Ohio CASA/GAL Association is deeply appreciative of the volunteers, community partners, professional athletes and their families, Reds and Guardians staff members, and local CASA programs who helped make this year’s campaign a success.

Together, their support helps more Ohioans learn about the need for CASA volunteers and the difference they make in ensuring children’s voices are heard.