Sexually Abused Children Have Hope
Bikers Against Child Abuse Help Sexual Assault Victims
Aug 13, 2008
Bikers Against Child Abuse (BACA) is a strong non-profit organization dedicated to ensuring abused children in need are protected and to secure that their childhood will be happy. They provide assistance, comfort, safety and ongoing support to children who have been sexually, physically or emotionally abused.
Sadly, many survivors of child sexual assault do not get the therapy they need to rid them of the terror they once lived. BACA diligently works with children, empowering them and giving hope for a bright future.
History
John Paul Chief Lilly, a licensed clinical social worker founded BACA in Utah in1995. In his two decades of work in treatment of abused children he realized the system in which he worked although had its positives, left some gaps. Children who are terrified do not provide enough evidence for cases to be pursued. Chief Lilly envisioned an organization that can not only provide therapy for those who can not afford it, but to assist the family in providing emotional security. Any individual feeling safe in his environment is capable of recollecting necessary details for a solid case to be developed.
BACA is multi-tiered, headed by the National Executive Board, followed by the National Board of Directors. Each state has a BACA State Board of Directors made up of local BACA chapters. BACA is located in the United States and Australia. Currently, there are talks in hopes to get chapters started in Canada.
BACA Members
Those with time, perseverance and strong commitment to helping children are members of BACA. They include law enforcement officers, clinical therapists, secretaries, farmers, editors, teachers, attorneys and blue collar workers. To become a full-patched member thorough background checks are completed to ensure there is no criminal record against children on that person.
Public Recognition
Those unaware of this organization may perceive BACA to be “just another bike gang”. Biking today has become recreation for some and for others a necessity due to rising fuel costs. There are misconceptions at times, but with continued public education, BACA clearly demonstrates that they are committed to help children who are abused. They attend community events and have public presentations. They are continuously getting the message out that child abuse, in all its insidious forms, is still prevalent in our society and that we all need to be diligent in prevention.
BACA works cooperatively with law enforcement officers. In fact, they are well received by law enforcement. In the communities that BACA serves, police know that BACA members are not vigilantes. Police are aware that BACA members are the most dedicated group of individuals who are united in assisting abused children.
Referrals
BACA receives referrals from police, parents, caregivers and child care agencies. When a call is received BACA verifies that the case is in the system in order to eliminate the possibility of a false allegation. Police and child protection agencies must have these cases on record before BACA can provide services to a child
How Can Others Help
Helping children on this magnitude, unfortunately, has financial requirements. BACA relies heavily on volunteerism and donations. Not only do individuals provide donations, there are corporations, private business owners, rock bands, and other community groups such as the Lions, Rotary Clubs and Shriners who assist. Many BACA members use their own funds to support the cause.
Google searches on the effects of sexual abuse prove why intervention and services are essential to children.
For more information about this non-profit organization please visit BACA's website .
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