It’s hard to imagine being a victim of abuse – let alone experiencing it as a child. But that’s the sad reality for many little ones around the world.
According to Childhelp, a report of child abuse is made in the United States every ten seconds.
For kids whose abusers are caught, another scary step that many of them must take involves going to court. As one can imagine, that would be very difficult (and terrifying) to stand up against a person who hurt you – so having a strong support system would make a huge difference.
Thanks to members of an international motorcycle group, that’s what these kids have.
Burly bikers consisting of men and women stand by their creed: “No child deserves to live in fear.” Known as Bikers Against Child Abuse, Inc., or simply BACA, this global organization empowers abused kids through their physical strength, numbers, and tough attitude.
https://www.facebook.com/BikersAgainstChildAbuseInternational/photos/2842408159192978
BACA helps make a difference for abused children who need suport.
In 1995, John Paul “Chief” Lilly from Provo, Utah, came up with the idea for BACA. In the 25 years since first starting the organization, it’s expanded by opening chapters all over the United States. Not only is this a national endeavor, but also one that helps children in other countries.
“Chief” had a specific idea in mind.
The goal was to allow bikers, many of them who’d also been abused while growing up, to take a stand with kids as they go through the justice system to have their abusers prosecuted. Since a lot of children have to come face-to-face with the person who caused them harm, “Chief” knew they needed backup.
https://www.facebook.com/BikersAgainstChildAbuseInternational/photos/1404645772969231
The entire group is there for them.
When an abused child goes to court, there’s not just one muscular biker in attendance but a whole group of them. If I were the perpetrator, I’d be looking for a way to escape. With strong men and women standing with them, these kids find an internal strength they didn’t even know they had.
The BACA website explains it perfectly.
According to a statement on the organization’s website, it’s clear what their intentions are.
“We exist as a body of Bikers to empower children to not feel afraid of the world in which they live. We stand ready to lend support to our wounded friends by involving them with an established, united organization.”
https://www.facebook.com/BikersAgainstChildAbuseInternational/photos/a.226414654125688/766933576740457
They don’t just work alone.
The site goes on to explain that the members of BACA work with both local and stage officials already in place to help these kids. Along with the emotional support they provide, they’re also there physically. Often, their burliness is what gives abused kids the courage to speak up, loud and clear.
https://www.facebook.com/BikersAgainstChildAbuseInternational/photos/1696056790494793
This organization is multifaceted.
Often, people with Child Protective Services, private therapists, and even clergymen reach out to BACA for help. Initially, a representative from BACA meets with the child, who’s then assigned two caseworkers to serve as their points of contact.
These children even receive a special BACA vest, signifying they’re now a part of this incredible pack and if wanted, they’re taken for a motorcycle ride.
https://www.facebook.com/BikersAgainstChildAbuseInternational/photos/1882463041854166
The children don’t have to be victims any longer.
Instead, they become warriors with the best team possible backing them up. Let’s face it, the last thing an abuser wants is to mess with one of these guys. If approved by the judge, members of BACA attend court proceedings.
The change in how these children handle the process is obvious. Rather than cower down, they stand in confidence.
As one member stated,
“When we get involved, these kids gain self-confidence. They beam, do better in school, and they’re not afraid anymore. And that’s what we do, we give them their lives back.”
No child should ever be abused. Fortunately, BACA is there to help support the youngsters in our world who sadly do become victims.
Watch the video below to learn more about this incredible and life-changing organization!
