Imagine being 6 and having your first forensic interview. Your mom found out your stepdad was sexually abusing you. You’re not sure what to think or say. You’re scared and uncertain. Denver Children’s Advocacy Center’s forensic interviewers show up by making you feel safe and seen. You don’t say much, and they reassure you, not pressure you.
You start therapy with a DCAC therapist. Your therapist is kind and caring. You are angry and scared. She shows up for you however you need her to– listening, playing, and helping you feel safe. Your therapist takes you outside and tries new activities. After a few months, you start to feel comfortable and share more about how you’re feeling.
You have a second interview with a DCAC forensic interviewer and are able to disclose more about what happened to you. You feel safe and seen and heard.
The DCAC team shows up for you and your family, helping you prepare for trial and continue to heal from your trauma. You testify in court. Your stepdad is sentenced to 36 years in prison. You feel relieved and proud. And with DCAC’s team continuing to show up for you and your family, you continue on the path of healing.
You are 6-years-old. You take your childhood back. You start to show up for yourself in ways that you never imagined. You are confident. You are hopeful. You are a kid again.
While this story is about D’Angelo, stories like this one happen every single day because our team shows up for kids, however they need us to.
And because donors and volunteers show up to support our vital work.
Each year, DCAC serves more than 10,000 children and their non-offending family members. Children and families like D’Angelo and Keana’s who came to DCAC after abuse and are now healing.
“I am incredibly grateful for the support and care provided by DCAC,” said Keana, D’Angelo’s mom. “Their dedication and expertise have been instrumental in helping my child heal and regain confidence, allowing them to embrace life with renewed hope and joy.”
How you can can show up this Colorado Gives Day
Colorado Gives Day is just a few weeks away on Tuesday, December 9th.Early giving started on November 1st, and any donation made between now and December 9th goes toward our goal of raising $50,000 for our vital work. Donate here today!
In addition to showing up for kids like D’Angelo through a donation, you can possibly benefit from Colorado Childcare Contribution Credit (CCCCC). For every $1 you donate, you can earn 70¢ back in tax credit. Your contribution of $250 or more to our early childhood and mental health training programs may qualify for a 50% CCCCC. Please select Tax Credit (CCCCC) upon checkout. Learn more about the CCCCC tax credit.
You can also use your employer match to make an even bigger impact. Many companies offer to match employee donations. Check with your human resources department to see if you may qualify for a match. Every dollar makes a difference!
Donate to DCAC on Colorado Gives Day to show your commitment to kids like D’Angelo, no matter what. Let’s help kids heal, grow, and thrive this Colorado Gives Day and always!