We’re heartbroken when we hear stories of child abuse in our community.  It’s easy to believe abuse only happens in urban areas and assume our small community is immune from such tragedies, but we are not.

While we hear about child abuse cases when they end in a fatality, there are hundreds of other cases of abuse or neglect that remain unreported because of confidentiality laws. And when the courts determine these children should be removed from their homes for their own safety, it doesn’t stop there.
In fact, that’s just the beginning.

As a community, we usually expect that law enforcement, the department of human services and courts will take care of the situation. But they can’t do it alone. Children who’ve been abused need more than just a safe place to stay. They need nurturing foster homes and sometimes committed adoptive homes. They need mentors who can show them their potential. And they need advocates who can speak on their behalf throughout the overwhelming court process.

If you’ve been concerned by the tragic stories of abuse in our community, perhaps you’ve wondered what you can do to help. We know that foster families are always in short supply. But not everyone can make that type of commitment.  There are many non-profit agencies that support these kids, yet it’s sometimes difficult to sort through them and figure out where you can best help.

Until now.

Through a collaboration involving Mesa County Partners, the Mesa County Department of Human Services and Court Appointed Special Advocates of Mesa County, you can learn about the many ways you can help these kids.

An informational meeting is scheduled for 5:30 p.m. Sept. 21 at the Grand Junction City Hall auditorium at 250 N. Fifth St. At this brief meeting you’ll have an opportunity to hear about the range of ways you can help these kids. You’ll have time to ask questions and then decide which option constitutes the best fit for you.

It’s about foster care, but it’s about more. It’s about fostering hope.

Janet Rowland is executive director of Court Appointed Special Advocates of Mesa County. For more information about CASA, call 242-4191 or visit the Web site at www.casamc.org.