Don Kleinfelder Death & Obituary: It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Don Kleinfelder, the founder and long-time leader of Child Advocates of Placer and Yuba Counties (CASA). After leading the organization for 17 years, Don’s unexpected passing leaves a significant void in the child advocacy community. His leadership, generosity, and dedication to children in need will forever be remembered, and his legacy will continue to shape the work of CASA and the lives of countless children.
The Beginnings of CASA: A Lifelong Commitment to Children
Don’s journey in child advocacy began in 2004 when he founded CASA with a simple but powerful belief: every child deserves a safe and loving home. His passion and commitment to this cause sparked the creation of an organization that would grow from a small grassroots effort into one of the most influential forces in Placer and Yuba Counties. CASA became a lifeline for children in foster care, offering support and hope to those in need. Under Don’s leadership, CASA became a symbol of compassion, helping countless children and families rebuild their lives.
A Vision for Strong Families: Groundbreaking Initiatives
Don’s vision for CASA extended far beyond traditional child advocacy. In 2010, he introduced the Family Mentor Program, an innovative initiative designed to assist parents in reuniting with their children by providing the necessary resources to create stable, safe homes. This program reflected Don’s deep belief that strong families are the foundation of healthy communities, and it ensured that families facing difficulties had the support they needed to heal and thrive together.
In 2020, Don’s commitment to holistic care for families led to the establishment of the Family Services Division. This division was designed to address the mental health, educational, and emotional needs of foster children, helping them grow and develop as they transitioned into stable homes. Don’s vision created a more comprehensive approach to supporting foster youth, providing them with the care they needed to succeed.
Innovative Programs: Addressing Urgent Needs
Don’s dedication to child advocacy also led to the creation of programs that addressed some of the most urgent and overlooked issues affecting vulnerable children. In 2019, he launched the Be Bold program to support victims of human trafficking. The program sought to raise awareness and provide help to children who had been exploited and abused. Don’s tireless work in this area shone a light on the devastating impact of human trafficking, offering a beacon of hope for those who had nowhere else to turn.
Another groundbreaking initiative was the K-9 for Kids program, introduced in 2020. This program paired therapy dogs with children who had experienced trauma, helping them overcome the effects of abuse and neglect. By providing a safe and compassionate environment for healing, Don’s work with therapy animals allowed children to regain trust and emotional stability, offering them a chance at recovery.
Leadership and Personal Touch: A Mentor to Many
Don’s leadership style was defined by his personal touch and deep care for those around him. His colleagues, staff, and volunteers remember him as a mentor who always took the time to offer guidance and support. Don’s kindness, humility, and generosity inspired everyone he worked with, and his ability to build relationships and create a culture of care and respect was central to his success.
A Lasting Legacy: The Don Kleinfelder Fund and Heroes Award
In honor of Don’s incredible contributions, CASA has established the Don Kleinfelder Fund to ensure that vital programs like the Hero’s Fund continue to provide support to children and families in need. The Hero’s Fund helps provide financial assistance to families facing the most significant challenges, ensuring that no child is left behind.
Additionally, the Don Kleinfelder Heroes Award will be presented annually at the Evening of Hope Gala. This award will recognize individuals who embody the values Don held dear—those who go above and beyond to serve vulnerable children and families. It is a fitting tribute to Don’s legacy, ensuring that his mission of advocacy, care, and compassion will live on through those who continue his work.
A Legacy of Change: Don’s Lasting Impact
Though Don’s loss is deeply felt, his legacy will live on in the programs he built, the children whose lives he transformed, and the community he helped shape. His vision for a better future for children in foster care continues to inspire the work of CASA and other child advocacy organizations. Through his tireless commitment, Don Kleinfelder changed the lives of thousands of children, helping them find safety, support, and the possibility of a brighter future.
As the community mourns his loss, there is hope in knowing that the foundation Don built will continue to impact children’s lives for generations to come. His work serves as a reminder of the power one person has to change the world, and his legacy will continue to inspire others to fight for the rights of every child to a safe and loving home.
Rest in peace, Don Kleinfelder. Your vision, dedication, and compassion will never be forgotten.