Do you know it only takes one caring adult to change the path of a child’s life?

For children who have experienced adversity or trauma, studies show the difference between a life of struggle or success is having at least one caring adult in their lives.

Can you picture who those people were for you? A parent or grandparent? A teacher, coach, or mentor? These adults invested in you and shaped you into the person you are today.

Today, many Kentucky children are facing circumstances no child should. More than 14,000 children in Kentucky were victims of abuse or neglect in 2023.

We know the way to give these children their best chance in life is to surround them with adults who care about them, creating safety and belonging. These relationships give children the security they need to grow into healthy adults.

Take one example—let’s call him Jackson*.

Jackson is in sixth grade. Earlier this year, he was asked by his teacher to think of someone who was a positive influence in his life.

The person he thought of was Shanon, his therapist from the Kentucky United Methodist Children’s Homes.

Jackson had previously struggled with anxiety and acted out in school as a result. He was quiet and reserved. His actions asked the questions he couldn’t put into words: “Am I safe? Does anyone care about me? Can anyone help me?”

Today, Jackson has flourished. Shanon’s consistent presence in his life has helped him grow. He can now express himself with confidence. He knows how to work through anxious moments.

Jackson wrote a letter to Shanon in gratitude. “Here are the reasons you are my greatest influence,” he said. “You have helped me be a better person. You’re the best friend I’ve ever had. I’ve been thanking you in my heart.”

Jackson will face new challenges as he grows up. But thanks to a foundation of care from the adults in his life, he will know how to overcome them.

There are so many more children in Kentucky who deserve that support. They deserve a compassionate adult who knows how to guide them through difficult times. They need someone to listen, to encourage, and to believe in their future.

Practically speaking, they need you. Please consider a special gift for young people like Jackson. Your gift will help us provide caring adults and other life-changing help for youth who deserve the chance to heal from abuse, neglect, or trauma.

Thank you for giving us the privilege of serving you and the youth of Kentucky. Like Jackson, we are thanking you in our heart!

*Jackson is a pseudonym. Stock photos are used to protect client's identity.