During the recent meeting of the Lawrenceburg Rotary, Charlsie Legendre, the Director of Kids Place Child Advocacy Center, delivered an impactful presentation about the center’s essential role in supporting abused children and their families across Lawrence, Maury, Giles, and Wayne counties. Celebrating its 25th anniversary, Kids Place has become a crucial resource for young victims of abuse, collaborating closely with law enforcement, educational institutions, and various organizations to ensure safety, healing, and hope for those in need.
Legendre, who has been at the helm of the center for the past three years, highlighted the staggering statistics from the previous year, revealing that the center received over 800 referrals and welcomed 400 children through its doors. “Our dedicated team consists of trained advocates and licensed therapists who accompany children through some of the most challenging times in their lives,” Legendre explained. She emphasized that their mission extends beyond merely supporting victims; they also empower families and communities to identify and respond to signs of abuse effectively.
Each year, Kids Place provides direct therapeutic services to between 150 and 200 children. In addition to these critical support services, the center actively engages in adult education initiatives aimed at teaching community members how to recognize potential indicators of abuse. Legendre reinforced the importance of this education, stating, “It’s not just a sign; it can save a life.”
April marks Child Abuse Prevention Month, and in recognition of this, Kids Place is encouraging community involvement through a meaningful initiative known as Kids Place Shirts. “Many individuals have shared stories about how wearing these shirts has sparked important conversations—it serves as a visible symbol of solidarity with our children,” Legendre remarked.
The center’s operations are sustained through a combination of federal and state grants, alongside local fundraising efforts, which include their annual gala, Jeep Run, and Demolition Derby. Over the past three years, the center’s budget has seen significant growth, increasing from $600,000 to $1 million, a reflection of both rising demand for services and robust community support.
Situated in the former Children’s Home on Westpoint Road, Kids Place continues to serve as a sanctuary and advocate for children in distress, making a profound impact that resonates well beyond its physical location. For those interested in learning more or contributing to their mission, further information can be found at https://kpcac.org. The program was introduced by Rotarian Olivia White, who set the stage for this vital discussion.