Joe + Darka Casar

If it wasn't for my mom and dad where would I or my children be?

Both parents were involved with the Slovenian community. Dad volunteering at the BBQ, picnics, sausage making and other events. Mom sewing costumes when I was younger, volunteering in the kitchen and baking cookies passing on recipes.

They drove me every Sunday there would be a Slovenian picnic. Taking us to Slovenian concerts and anniversary dinners celebrating the community. My mom and dad took us every Saturday for catechism and Slovenian language classes to preserve our heritage. Not to mention all the times they drove me to dance practice where I would perform every year in Folklorama. I became very passionate about dancing. I danced for many years and taught dancing to the junior groups for 17 years, was princess and twice ambassador for the pavilion. I helped with picnics, organized events like Boo at the Zoo, taught catechism multiple times to the Slovenian youth. Now my children dance for the Slovenian pavilion, attend band concerts and participate in events that contribute to their heritage.

My hope for them is to have similar experiences to embrace the Slovenian culture  and build everlasting friendships through the community just as my parents and I have.

I'm truly blessed to be Slovenian and I'm proud of a country that is so small but has a big heart.

So where would have I been today if it wasn't for these experiences that my wonderful parents exposed me to and being part of a fantastic community!

November 2021