Dwilene's Story
In 2009, my perception of mental and emotional abuse was forever changed after witnessing firsthand, the devastating effects and personal turmoil it was bringing to two children dear to my heart. It saddened me that I was unable to rescue these children or even provide funding to help them. Pushing aside feelings of frustration and helplessness, I set out to be an agent of change. Working alongside my best friend and daughter, who were very devoted to the cause, we quickly realized it would take a community to truly raise awareness. Collaborating with my best friend and daughter, we began researching different avenues we could take to help other children break from the shackles of mental and emotional abuse. In our research, we came across material on how to file for a corporation and a 501(c)(3) non-profit entity and a spark was ignited. Despite banter from others that this process would take at least a year or more, on February 5, 2010, only three months after we started, God opened a door and we had an incorporated, non-profit organization: Children 4 Tomorrow.
This process was a true test of faith and a challenge to our spirit. Armed with only $500, the common love for children, a passionate vision and a bedroom as our headquarters, we were able to persevere and create this organization aimed at bringing education and support to the community. Although we were ecstatic to serve two children in our first year, we regrettably had to turn down five other children due to a lack of financing. This was devastating to our organization and an eye-opener to the battle ahead, but we were up for the challenge.
A strong emphasis was placed on formulating a strong fundraising campaign in hopes to serve more children. Within four months we planned and held our first major event, a Charity Golf Tournament, and Silent Auction, which will become a staple of this organization and an annual fundraising event. In our first year as an organization, we raised approximately $9,000 which was better than the loss we were expected to incur.
In 2011, we plan to raise funds to serve 20 children with increased growth of 50% per year thereafter. Our challenge is to find volunteers, sponsors, and employees that are compassionate and committed to helping every child have a sunrise in their heart, a twinkle in their eye and illuminate with hope.
In the past five years, we have made an impact in our city and community. However, there are still so many children whose lives have been and still are significantly affected by life-threatening child abuse. Our efforts are far from over. Every single day in this city, children are victims of child abuse, neglect, and abandonment. Equipped with our present team of board members, volunteers, organizational resources, and your generous contributions, we are hopeful, and our passionate vision marches on.
REMEMBER … children are the future
RAISE … the issue to commit to the advocacy for emotional child abuse
RECOGNIZE … and look for signs of distress; prevention is a shared responsibility
RECOMMEND … ideas the community can use to help a child enjoy a well-adjusted future
RETHINK … ways of Restoring Minds ~ Building Futures for children
REACH OUT … to kids and parents to get professional help
REPORT … child abuse and neglect, it’s your job!