By Shavonne Potts
spotts@salisburypost.com
SALISBURY — This upcoming year, Prevent Child Abuse Rowan will have to look for other sources of funding after it didn’t receive a grant from the Governor’s Crime Commission.
The agency has received this grant in the past, which in part funds a family advocate position and that of the director for the Terrie Hess House child advocacy center.
The center is a program of Prevent Child Abuse Rowan.
The agency, which relies upon grants and donations, is embarking on a number of fundraisers. Organizers say community support could make a difference.
The agency recently received a grant from the Robertson Foundation to fund a forensic interviewer.
“We need major backing to sustain us,” said fundraising chair Matt Marsh.
Marsh, who is co-owner of The Forum, at one time didn’t know the center existed.
His eyes light up when he talks about how community dollars could benefit the children the agency helps.
So far this year, the advocacy center has helped 50 children, compared to last year at this same time when it had helped 38.
Children who have been sexually or physically abused receive services including counseling, medical and legal help through the agency. The agency’s main goal is to help children without further traumatizing them.
“We want them to feel safe. It’s a healing environment,” said Interim Executive Director Karen Barbee.
Marsh said Prevent Child Abuse Rowan and the Terrie Hess House do a good job with what funds they receive, but more could always be done.
“Our mission is to stop abuse. We need resources to start programs,” he said.
Marsh is always thinking of potential fundraisers, but welcomes other ideas.
Upcoming fundraisers:
• Giordana Crossroads 2012 Classic, August, Salisbury. Concession stand proceeds benefit the advocacy center.
• Spin To End, Sept. 1 at The Forum, Salisbury.
• Butterball 5K Run/ Walk, Nov. 22, The Forum, Salisbury.
• Cell phone donations — new or used, broken or working cell phones.
Barbee said the cell phone donation drive is ongoing and recently brought in $78.
“We can do a lot with $78,” she said.
There is also a need for volunteers, she said.
The agency would like to see more churches become involved in the center.
Marsh said donations can be made via the agency’s website as well as www.fundraise.com.
For more information about Prevent Child Abuse Rowan and the Terrie Hess House, go to www.preventchildabuserowan.org.
Contact reporter Shavonne Potts at 704-797-4253.