We hate to start this blog with this statistic, but it shows the necessity of programs like the Western Slope Center for Children as 10 of children are sexually abused before their 18th birthday, and approximately 90% or more of children who are victims know their abuser. The Center provides support for these children, who have been sexually abused, and/or severely physically abused, or who are witnesses to violence. They provide them a safe and non-threatening environment to be interviewed and addressed by providers and professionals.
The image below embodies all that this amazing organization does.
This nonprofit organization works with existing governmental agencies such as the Mesa County Department of Human Services and local law enforcement agencies, as well as independent service providers, to meet these kids' needs. They provide a healthy, at-home atmosphere for sexual abuse prevention training, forensic medical exams by a Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner (S.A.N.E), appropriate medical and mental health referrals, facilitated case coordination and review meetings, as well as so much more. By having all of this in one location, there is a huge reduction in the number of interviews a victim must endure, as well as in-house advocacy.
In Mesa County, more than 300 children a year are harmed by sexual or physical abuse. If you would like to help this nonprofit 501(c)(3) 501 (c)(3) organization, they are currently doing a capital fundraising campaign for their new building at 2350 G Road. You can learn more about that as well as so much more.
