History & Mission

Our Mission

 

Our mission for The Casey Williamson memorial foundation is to provide meaningful education, practical resources, and community support so parents and children can make informed decisions that help keep families safe. Through a wide variety of safety topics, interactive learning opportunities, and connections with local organizations, we aim to empower families with the knowledge and tools that promote prevention, awareness, and preparedness. By fostering a community focused on safety and education, our goal is to help prevent tragedies and hardships, ensuring that children grow up in environments where they are protected, supported, and able to thrive.

 

The Beginning

 

On July 26, 2002, Cassandra "Casey" Williamson was tragically kidnapped and murdered. This heartbreaking loss of an innocent life forever changed our family and the Valley Park community.

Upon the anniversary of her loss, our family sought to turn grief into purpose by creating "A Walk to Remember Casey". The event brought the community together to honor Casey's memory and support each other in our grief. However, we had lost not only a beautiful, innocent little girl, but our sense of security, so we decided to do something. 

 

Soon our event included child ID kits, and speakers to share important safety lessons with the children to encourage them to be aware of their surroundings, listen to their feelings, and actions to take if approached by someone who made them uncomfortable. Our goal was to prepare them to stay aware and identify potentially dangerous situations.

 

As the event grew we began to envision something with an even greater impact. What if we could educate children and families about all aspects of safety in one place? What if families could learn about water safety, fire safety, bike safety, car and car seat safety, outdoor safety, poison control, and of course personal safety? We could create an opportunity for children and their families to be empowered through knowledge, teach confidence and not fear. We could make a difference. 

 

From that vision, the Valley Park Safety Fair was created. Guided by loss but driven by hope, our mission is to use education, awareness, and community support to protect children and prevent other families from facing the tragedy our family and community once endured.