It Does Take a Village to Raise and Protect a Child
November 28, 2011
Here in the United States, we are just as concerned about raising our children and understand that it is a team effort. The team typically consists of family members, schools, neighbors, faith-based communities, and so on. Our process, however, tends to be more formal and structured than the village concept. As a result, we may not always feel personally responsible for individual successes and failures. For example, if a teacher can get 95 percent of his or her students to pass a test, this is success, as well it should be. However, who takes responsibility for the 5 percent who do not pass? Nonetheless, we continue to step up our efforts to create an atmosphere where children can live and learn in a healthy and secure environment, one equipped with appropriate safety nets.
Unfortunately, there are some among us who “march to the beat of a different drummer” and inflict unnecessary pain and suffering on our children. There are even those who consider children as prey and exploit them for financial gain and/ or self-serving gratification. In either case, the wall of security that society has established around our children has been breached.
Consequently, there has been and will continue to be the need for communities, state and local agencies, and nonprofit organizations to band together to protect our children and repair the breach. Children’s Advocacy Centers of Georgia is committed to building and maintaining healthy, ongoing, collaborative relationships with Georgia communities. We believe that we can protect children if private citizens, foundations, legislators, corporations and communities join forces to end abuse.
Although there are certain people required by Georgia law to report child abuse, anyone can and SHOULD make a report of suspected abuse. If you feel that a child is a victim of abuse or neglect, contact your local law enforcement or Department of Family and Children Services (DFCS) immediately.
Does it take a village to raise and protect a child? If a child is to become a wholesome and productive member of society, the answer would be a resounding YES.
Posted By:
Cynthia D. Howell
CEO
Children’s Advocacy Centers of Georgia