This letter appeared in our email newsletter distributed the week of May 7. To sign up to receive these newsletters so you can learn more about the children and programs of CYDC, please click here.
Dear Supporters,
For nearly 40 years, organizations with missions similar to ours have observed the month of April as Child Abuse Prevention Month. As we go through the month of May, we recognize that child abuse is an issue of year-round concern. Though CYDC does not work in the realm of child abuse prevention, as an organization that works with families and communities to heal the effects of child abuse, neglect and abandonment, we see the young victims of these of horrible crimes and witness daily the effects this maltreatment has on the fragile self-images of these children.
One of the true rewards of doing the kind of work we do is being able to see for ourselves the remarkable changes, in both attitude and behavior, these children make while in our care. That day when they realize their place in the world matters is a life-changing moment for all of us. This recent note from a staff person served to reinforce that idea.
“I was giving a tour to a girl of about 15 years old on her first day on our campus. When we got to the computer lab in the Bakker [Career] Center where the kids do their homework, I braced myself for the groans and moans I sometimes encounter on that part of the tour — after all, kids are usually none too eager to talk about doing their homework! Instead, the teen looked up at me, and said, ‘Wow, this is the homework lab?!? I can’t believe it! I can’t WAIT to do my homework here!’”
To this young lady, the thought of having a safe place to do her homework, clear of distracting noise and clutter, coupled with someone to help her with her assignments stood in stark contrast to the environment in which she used to do her homework. She was excited to be able to have someone to offer some assistance with her assignments and thrilled to be able to have resources that she previously lacked to aid in her efforts, like a computer and internet access.
As we look ahead to the summer, we are pleased, with your continuing support and encouragement, to be able to offer the young people in our care the second chance many of them so desperately need. We thank you again for your role in helping us to heal the effects of child abuse, neglect and abandonment.
Sincerely,
Barbara Kelley Duncan
Chief Executive Officer
These generous volunteers, who have been working to provide our children with holiday cheer for the past 15 years, provided each child with gifts. They also donated gifts for our homes that included video games, books, linen and stuffed animals. Our staff tells us they heard many squeals of excitement as the children opened their gifts, as well as more than a few breathless comments of “This is the best Christmas ever!” We are so appreciative to all of you for your role in helping to make the holiday season memorable for our deserving children and youth. 
Last week as I was reading through emails before heading to a meeting, I saw a familiar face pop in to my office. I broke into a smile as Robbie, who lived in our Oak Grove group home a few years ago made his way into my office. He had his new wife, Leah, with him and excitedly shared the news that they expecting their first child! Robbie was the first to complete the Bakker Career Center’s Leadership for Life Program and later helped to develop the graphic arts program at the Center. After a difficult upbringing, he flourished in our care, completing his GED before enlisting in the National Guard, securing employment at Zeus, Inc., buying a car and finding a place of his own to live! All of us at CYDC are pleased to see that he has developed into a happy, well adjusted young man.
Raheem, pictured left, is a former Bakker Scholar who worked for both Staples and Converse applying skills he learned in the Bakker Center. A graduate of Wando High School, Raheem left after the celebration for National Guard basic training. Sharing the honors with Raheem at the celebration was John, a young man who finished his high school classes at West Ashley High School last fall. John, who first came to us as a resident of Oak Grove group home, is a former Bakker Scholar and Ambassador whose work ethic and pleasant attitude were repeatedly praised by his employer. He is interested in pursuing a future in the military, and we’re certain he will excel at whatever he chooses!
The two have been matched for eight years, spending time with each other going out to eat, checking out local sporting events and talking on the phone. Bill also attends many of Terrence’s track meets and football games, and he provided assistance for Terrence to be able to attend a national track meet last summer. 
The day kicked off with a dozen K-Con employees on site to prepare the food. Led by Nate Albertson of 
Located in Moncks Corner, Callen-Lacey Center for Children is the only emergency shelter for children in Berkeley County. Rep. Umphlett, along with his family, was a longtime supporter of the Center. His daughter, Karen Umphlett, is a member of Callen-Lacey’s Advisory Council, a committee of business and community supporters who help with fundraising and awareness on behalf of the Center. Rep. Umphlett died in May 2011.
Are you looking for a night out on the town with your favorite local celebrity or perhaps a strappingly handsome rugby player? Then you need to buy tickets to the Charleston Outlaws Rugby Football Club’s Charleston Rugby Charity Auction. The second annual event will be held at the South Carolina Aquarium, Thursday, September 8, from 7 p.m. to 11 p.m. in formal attire.