The Voices of Child Advocates of Fort Bend OCTOBER 2024
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Keeping you informed on our mission:
Strengthen the Child's Voice, Heal the Hurt, and Break the Cycle of Abuse and Neglect for Children and Families in Fort Bend and surrounding counties.
6 DOMESTIC VIOLENCE AND CHILD ABUSE FEATURE STORY
The connection and the impact
8 CHILD ADVOCATES OF FORT BEND WRAPAROUND SERVICES
Learn about it. . .
9 DEFYING ODDS
Read how one youth we served is defying all the odds 10 14th Annual Event was inspiring TRANSFORMING LIVES
14 Updates on what we ’ ve been doing and the recent volunteer social SPOTLIGHTS
20 SAVE THESE DATES
Save these dates and plan to join us for these upcoming events
Welcome Friends,
from the ceo
We’re dedicating this issue of VOICES to all our Hispanic and Latino children, families, volunteers and staff
October is Domestic Violence Prevention Month. This topic is particularly important in working with children who have experienced abuse because children exposed to domestic violence may experience a range of difficulties. What is domestic violence? Domestic Violence (DV) takes many forms, including chronic arguing and yelling, controlling behaviors, intimidation, threats of suicide or murder, threats involving weapons and serious injuries. This is always an undercurrent of power and control. Any pattern of behaviors in intimate relationships marked by coercive control can be a signal or foreshadowing of abuse.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that in homes where violence between partners occurs, there
is a 45% to 60% chance of co-occurring child abuse, a rate 15 times higher than the average. Even when they are not physically attacked, children witness 68% to 80% of domestic assaults.
The circumstances of DV activate in kids a primal fear and a host of other raw, complex and unresolved emotions. The psychological aftermath of exposure to DV can include fear of harm or abandonment, excessive worry or sadness, guilt, inability to experience empathy or guilt, habitual lying, low frustration tolerance, emotional distancing, poor judgment, shame and fear about the future. These children are not merely innocent bystanders. They are victims.
Most of the children we serve have experienced adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) including exposure to domestic continued next page
violence It is critically important that we use trauma-informed therapies and understand what children have experienced through a trauma lens Our Trust Based Relational Intervention (TBRI) is anchored in this understanding of the role of trauma in children’s healing and recovery and that we must meet children where they are Child Advocates of Fort Bend is leading our countywide TBRI Collaborative and training school personnel, CPS, law enforcement, parents, the faith community and others in understanding the role of trauma in any type of abuse, but certainly when children have been exposed to domestic violence. Across our services, our staff are equipped to consider the role of DV in child abuse and how best to use their skills and training for the best outcomes for children. Read more inside about the many evidence-based approaches we are using.
This issue of VOICES will share all the many happenings in our busy Fall season – from
and helping children heal and recover from abuse including the tragedy of exposure to domestic violence. Thank you for joining us on our journey to End the Cycle of Abuse.
For the Children's Sake,
Ruthanne
Ruthanne Mefford, CEO
Domestic Violence and Child Abuse
By Jen Brown
Did you know there’s a haunting connection between domestic violence and child abuse? In homes where one form of abuse exists, the other often lurks in the shadows It’s like a vicious cycle, a dark secret that traps families in a nightmare
Imagine a home filled with fear, where love should thrive Domestic violence and child abuse are two monstrous evils that often intertwine, leaving a trail of broken hearts and shattered lives
Domestic violence, a cruel betrayal of trust, can rear its ugly head in many forms It's the physical pain of bruises and broken bones, the emotional torment of constant criticism and isolation, the psychological terror of control and intimidation It’s the financial suffocation that strips away independence
The connection between domestic violence and child abuse is a complex one Shared risk factors, a cycle of violence, power dynamics, and the trauma of witnessing abuse all play a role It’s a vicious cycle that can be difficult to break
The Impact of Domestic Abuse on Children
Children who witness domestic violence are at a higher risk of experiencing abuse themselves, both physically and emotionally Additionally, the stress of living in a violent environment can have a significant impact on a child's development
The impact of witnessing such abuse is farreaching and deeply damaging
continued next page
FEATURE STORY
The short-term effects are often evident, manifested in emotional distress, behavioral problems, and physical symptoms Anxiety, fear, sadness, anger, guilt, and shame become their constant companions They may withdraw from friends and family, struggle to concentrate, or experience sleep disturbances Their bodies may react physically, with headaches, stomachaches, and changes in appetite
But the long-term consequences of domestic violence are even more devastating Children who witness such abuse are at a higher risk of developing mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, and substance abuse. They may struggle to form healthy relationships, haunted by trust issues and the fear of repeating the cycle of violence. Their educational performance may suffer, as they grapple with the emotional turmoil that affects their ability to learn and focus.
It's important to note that while there is a strong connection between child abuse and domestic abuse, not all cases involve both However, the relationship between these two forms of violence highlights the importance of addressing both issues simultaneously to break the cycle of abuse and create safe and healthy families
If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence or child abuse, please don’t suffer in silence There is help available Reach out to a trusted friend, family member, or a crisis hotline. Remember, you deserve safety, love, and respect.
Here are some resources: National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-7233
Texas Child Abuse Hotline: 1-800-252-5400
Child Advocates of Fort Bend Wraparound Services
By Metoyer Martin
In response to the increasing recognition of the complex needs of abused children, Child Advocates of Fort Bend has made a significant shift toward wraparound services an integrated, holistic approach designed to address not only the immediate safety concerns but also the broader emotional, psychological, and developmental needs of these abuse and neglect survivors
Wraparound Services are a comprehensive array of services tailored to meet the individual needs of each child These services aim to provide a coordinated response that encompasses various aspects of care At CAFB, we provide a multitude of services to address mental health, education support, family support, lifeskills, social and emotional skills, trauma-informed care, court advocacy (civil and criminal), forensic interviews, prevention education, and early childhood advocacy
When children and families have access to services that address the whole child, promising outcomes are reported This year, we saw just that when our Criminal Court Advocate took action to ensure her client received wraparound services through our agency Our CASA program host WINGS Lifeskills training sessions and Campus Crawl events every June and July This young lady was referred to the WINGS Campus Crawl event from our Children’s Advocacy Center’s Criminal Court Advocate program The Criminal Court Advocate provided support and assisted in preparing this young lady to testify against her perpetrator in his upcoming criminal trial The Criminal Court Advocate recognized the young girl’s intelligence and asked her about her
future plans The young girl stated she had no desire to attend college at the time She was invited her to attend the Campus Crawl event to explore colleges as an opportunity After attending this event, the young lady had a huge change of heart She decided she absolutely wanted to attend college She never thought this was a feasible option for her until she participated in the Campus Crawl program Through a tumultuous time in this young girl’s life, our agency provided her with services that impacted every aspect of her life and helped her regain some sense of normalcy By addressing the multifaceted needs of abused children and their families through a coordinated and holistic approach, there is a real opportunity to make a profound and lasting impact on their lives Wraparound services are crucial for ensuring that every child has the chance to heal and thrive in a safe and supportive environment
Defying Odds
By Carol Thesing
Being a Senior in High School, residing in a foster home, and trying to ensure your seven younger siblings, placed in various homes, are okay, would cause the strongest of us to collapse Not Jane
When her mother unexpectedly died in October 2023, and her father wasn’t in her life Jane could have given up, but she refused She
would not give up, but instead, she got stronger. She leaned on her CASA, her therapist, and her CPS worker and she battled on. When she turned 18, she chose to leave foster care and live with a family who transported her 30 miles each way to High School. It was important to her that she could graduate with her class, so they made that happen. Jane kept up her A/B average, she took her SATs, filed her FAFSA, applied for college… and was accepted into Prairie View A&M.
All of her siblings attended her High School graduation and many of them were also able to attend the Child Advocates of Fort Bend Graduation celebration
Jane works at a local Home Depot, where she plans to continue to work while in college She aspires to be a teacher and plans to always be there for her younger siblings Jane knows she is the only person who can take care of her On top of that, she’s planning on being the star guiding her siblings to finish school, go to college, and support themselves, as well
Jane and her siblings have become a part of the CASA family and we, as an agency, will walk alongside Jane through graduation at Prairie View A&M
Our 14th Annual VOICES FOR CHILDREN Transforming Lives Breakfast was an impactful and inspiring morning. We clapped to the spirited singing of the Scanlan Oaks Elementary Show Choir, applauded as we heard the story and advocacy of one of our Board members, and cried as we heard the trials from an abused survivor. Our hearts were moved by the outpouring of support from our generous donors. It was a special morning and capped off months of planning by our Development team.
We are grateful to our VOICES FOR CHILDREN donors – new and existing and the impact your sustaining support makes throughout each year.
If you are interested in making a donation with a five-year commitment and becoming a VOICES FOR CHILDEN Circle Donor, or a one-time gift, please contact Lisa at LMoore@cafb.org or 281.344.5108.
Support the tour today by becoming a Sponsor! Check out all the Sponsorship Options
Do YOU like to decorate?
Interested in having your home featured on the Home Tour or know someone who would like to get more information? We would love to talk to you. Please contact Tarina to chat!
Do YOU want to help?
Please grab your friends and be a host in a home OR share your baking skills by baking homemade cookies for the Tour.
For more information contact Tarina at TSheridan@cafb.org.
monthly spotlights
updates on training, staff and MORE!
Partnerships with Purpose
In September we continued our education series for staff that encompassed the role of the child welfare professional when going to court – revolving around subpoenas and expert testimony. Partners from the District Attorney’s office provided an in-depth training for our agency in house for the morning session and an afternoon session “in the courtroom”.
Special thanks to Sherry Robinson and Mark LaForge for coming to Child Advocates of Fort Bend and to Alycia Curtis and Elizabeth Howard for hosting us at the Fort Bend County Justice Center. Your shared experiences and expertise are invaluable. And an additional thank you to Associate Judge Argie Brame in the 434th for sharing her courtroom with us for this training. We are so grateful for all these important partnerships.
CAFB Day at the Ballpark
So many of us root for the Houston Astros, but did you know that they are rooting right back at us? The Houston Astros Foundation loves this community and enjoys giving back specifically to children and families. It was a lovely surprise when they donated tickets to two different ballgames where the CAFB
staff could enjoy a day at the ballpark, eating hot dogs, and catching pop-fly balls. Not to mention we were given an opportunity to share prevention and awareness materials in the concourse. Even if we help one child it’s worth it. Go Astros!
License to Help!
Did you know that Child Advocates of Fort Bend participates in the TX CASA Specialty License Plate Program?
You can order a custom license plate with the phrase “Big Voices for Little Texans” Not only can you spread awareness and show your support for us but a portion of the cost of the plate goes to Texas CASA and the local programs to increase our statewide efforts to advocate for
every child in the foster care system
To order your plate go to https://wwwtxdmvgov/motorists/lice nse-plates and search for CASA under specialty plates OR visit your local tax assessor ’ s office and ask for the Court Appointed Special Advocate license plate.
V O L U N T E E R S O C I A L
By Jen Brown
This past month our volunteers, staff, and board members gathered to socialize and meet new people at Lupe Tortillas in Sugar Land for the 4th year. We are so grateful to Lupe’s for being so incredibly supportive of our organization. They were attentive and gracious, and it made the evening that much more enjoyable! (Plus, the food and drinks are never a miss at Lupe’s!)
It was so nice to catch up with those we haven’t seen in a long time, meet new people, and laugh with friends. Every time CAFB volunteers are gathered in one place, you can feel the buzz of the mission we are all passionate about, share the joy of hearing stories, and embrace the appreciation for all who are there. It was a wonderful night thanks to our Volunteer Council. We look forward to the next one!!
The Volunteer Council gathers monthly to meet about various ways they can support CAFB volunteers and staff. They are the first to sign up for events where they can mentor or assist other volunteers, and we are grateful to have this group!
C A C U P D A T E
Our Response to Commercially Sexually Exploited Children
By Renee Johnson, Kristy Gutierrez and Metoyer Martin
In a move to better serve victims of child sex trafficking in Fort Bend County, Child Advocates of Fort Bend has added the new critical role of Lead Criminal Court Advocate. This new role includes supporting efforts and facilitating coordination with a Rapid Response Team (RRT) dedicated to rescuing and supporting victims. This is a collaborative effort with Harris County TRIAD program as well as our Multi-Disciplinary Team. The Rapid Response Team, a coalition of our Children’s Advocacy Center, law enforcement, child protection agencies, medical staff (SANE) and TRIAD, is designed to provide immediate and coordinated action when reports of child sex trafficking arise. The network of experts swiftly addresses cases of trafficking.
The Lead Criminal Court Advocate provides follow-up support to families, offering them resources and guidance as they navigate the challenges of teenage runaways. These families are often in search of solutions, placements, and encouragement to help reunite and strengthen their family units. We recently served a case through our Children’s Advocacy Center involving a teen girl that had been trafficked. Our Criminal Court Advocate was able to quickly coordinate efforts with law enforcement and our SANE staff to ensure this young girl received appropriate care and
resources to secure a safe environment for her.Our Lead Criminal Court Advocate located the young girl’s grandfather and waited at our Center with the victim until the relative was able retrieve the youth. Coordinated efforts between partners and streamlining the process significantly improved the support provided to this family.
With a focused approach and enhanced resources, Child Advocates of Fort Bend is aiming to make significant strides in disrupting trafficking operations and protecting vulnerable children.
Getting Organized for Therapy
By Brenda Zavala
Have you ever walked into a messy room and automatically felt overwhelmed and anxious?
Imagine how it feels for the littles that we serve at Child Advocates of Fort Bend. We’ll be spending the next few months organizing the playrooms because consistency is important for a child’s healing journey.
Children notice when something is out of place or if their favorite toy that they use to process isn’t where it was last time. For us, it may seem like it isn’t a big deal, but for the children who live in chaos in other parts of their lives or who are constantly changing environments, our playrooms become their safe space. The safe space here at CAFB will remain constant and safe, no matter what is happening elsewhere.
Children need structure and organization. When they walk into a clean and organized room it feels lighter for them. In our therapeutic playrooms, we are working on having everything the same so that each time the child walks in they know that they can pick up where they left off the last time they were here.
What are some ways parents can help at home?
Consistency is key. Walking children through their daily schedule
the night before and explaining what is planned. In the mornings, remind the children what their day will look like but also remind them that if things don’t go according to the schedule… it’s okay.
Having things labeled for children will also help at home.
Consistency also goes with discipline. Keep the discipline the same. In addition, if we react very angrily one time for something small and then don’t react the same way the next time, the child will get confused. Our responses matter.
Therapy sessions are semi-structured so they know what to expect. Children are also given a heads-up on what to expect in the next session regardless of age. At the beginning of the session, children are reminded what their session will look like and asked if they are in the headspace to continue to process where they left off from the last session.
Being intentional about a child’s healing is vital. The next few months of organizing the playrooms is just another way we take care of our children and families at CAFB.
Debunking the Myths of Child Sex Trafficking & Exploitation
Contact Dana at DMersiovsky@cafb.org for more info
October 22, 2024
TBRI® Empowering 10am - 4pm
CAFB Training Room
October 22, 2024
FRIENDS Fall Coffee
10am - 11:30am details here
Contact Judy Maddison at Jbm951@icloud.com
October 22, 2024
Darkness to Light
Contact Dana at DMersiovsky@cafb.org for more info
October 26, 2024
Year of the Dragon Party For reservations or details click here
October 29, 2024
Sip & Stroll
5:30pm - 7:00pm
Contact Lisa at LMoore@cafb.org to reserve your spot
November 22, 2024
National Adoption Day
save the date
December 6+7, 2024
Christmas Home Tour
“My turning point was knowing that I could “My turning point was knowing that I could change, that it didn’t have to be this way. ” change, that it didn’t have to be this way. ” - Domestic Violence Survivor - Domestic Violence Survivor
