This holiday season, we ask you to reflect on the power of hope and kindness. At the Child Abuse Prevention Council (CAPC), we’ve seen firsthand how even in the darkest moments, hope can transform lives. One mother’s story touched us deeply, and we’d love to share it with you…
She should be dreaming about birthday cakes and storybooks – not waking up from nightmares.
When she bravely told her mother that a trusted family member had hurt her, her world changed overnight. The person who caused her pain was gone, but the fear stayed.
She began having night terrors, sudden anger, and tears that no one could explain.
That’s when she came to the Child Abuse Prevention Council.
For sixteen months, Annie met with two gentle therapists who helped her find her voice again – once crayon drawing, one pretend game, one quiet moment at a time.
She built a dollhouse families that always stayed together.
She pretended to put out fires – the invisible ones burning insider her.
And she painted her nightmares into bright, brave colors she could finally face.
Little by little, Annie began to smile again.
In August, she graduated from therapy surrounded by her family. Her laughter filled the room – the kind of laughter that says, “I’m safe now.”
Every child like Annie deserves the chance to feel safe again.
Every parent deserves to see their child’s light return.
At CAPC, your compassion makes that possible – through therapy, family support, and safe spaces where children can heal and dream again.
This holiday season, as you gather with the people you love, please hold a space in your heart for children like Annie – and for the families still waiting for safety and peace.
Your kindness has the power to change a story.