CityView Magazine

CityAngel A place to feel safe By Sonia R. Garza T he Child Advocacy Center refuses to take child abuse sitting down – even on a chair specially made for pirates, fairies or storybook characters. If there’s something childlike about this non-profit agency, it’s by design. The center’s annual Blue Jean Ball and Chair-ity Auction this fall was planned not only by a group of grownup volun- teers but a child board to boot. The night was filled with adults and kids alike. The ballroom at Highland Country Club was filled to the brim with danc- ing children. Lights were flashing, and the music was booming. Adults bid on chairs which were painted and/or do- nated by various volunteers, including Mayor Tony Chavonne and N.C. Rep. Margaret Dickson. A mother and daughter sat arm in arm, posing for the camera. “It’s my first time here,” said Lauren Reames, who is 10. “I came with lots of church friends.” Her mom, Kelly, smiled and added, “I love wearing the jeans, too.” It might be one of the few fundrais- ers where children and adults come together and just one of many events hosted by the center to raise money and, most of all, awareness. The mission of the center is to provide a safe haven and a private facility for children and fami- lies suffering from sexual and physical child abuse. Executive Director Tammy Laurence is well aware that it’s not an easy sub- ject to talk about, but she says it is an important one. Cumberland County has the third highest number of child abuse cases in North Carolina. It is tied for sec- ond place in the number of deaths due to child abuse. “I’ve been told that it’s hard to look at the cases, so why look at them?” Lau- rence said. “We have to take ownership of the problem because it’s an epidemic. We have to take ownership and do bat- tle because those children are counting on us.” Children find a welcoming place the minute they walk in the front doors on Ray Avenue, not far from downtown CityViewNC.com | 63 Above left | At the Child Advocacy Center, a team comes together to investigate child abuse cases, including police officers such as Detective Scott Wells. Top | Executive Director Tammy Laurence Above | Mother and daughter Kelly and Lauren Reames came out to support the center at the recent Blue Jean Ball.

• Cover