Local motorcycle group takes stand against child abuse

I would like to take this time to introduce the community of Mountain Home to a group of unsung men and women who walk among us unknown. They are BACA -- Bikers Against Child Abuse, which exists in 11 countries and 47 states.

This includes the Southwest Idaho chapter in Mountain Home, which formed in 2002.

BACA creates a safer environment for abused children -- a body of bikers that 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.

They desire to send a clear message to all involved with the abused child that they are prepared to lend our physical and emotional support to them.

They stand at the ready to shield these children from further abuse and don't condone the use of violence or physical force. However, if circumstances arise in which they are the only obstacle preventing a child from further abuse, BACA stands ready to be that obstacle.

After the initial family visit, BACA support continues. Recently, my grandchild selected two of its members before he needed to testify in court. In the courtroom, 13 BACA members were there along with God and my family.

As my grandchild began to testify, I began to cry after hearing what had happened to him. A BACA member reached back and held my hand until my grandchild finished testifying. Afterward, there was a motorcycle escort to provide safety and security on behalf of my grandchild.

BACA members take time to attend classes and meetings. They are a non-profit organization, and any fundraisers they have are to help provide printed materials about the group and to pay for ceremonies in which children become honorary BACA members. This includes donning a helmet and getting a motorcycle ride by one of the group's members.

These children are not allowed to "fall through the cracks." The group lends support by giving the children empowerment while keeping them safe and providing them with the courage they need to tell others what happened to them.

BACA makes a difference for a child who feels it's their fault for the abuse that happened or feeling guilty and not letting go of their repressed anger and behaviors. The children then discover they are not alone in having to deal with the trauma and all of the after effects of the abuse they have suffered is wonderful.

I extend my sincere and heartfelt gratitude to BACA for the difference they have made through their support and compassion and love in my grandchilds' life.

I wish that no child would ever have to go through any type of abuse. But if it happens, BACA is there as the "keepers of the children".

If you would like to meet these special people or to just say hello and lend your support, their next fundraiser is scheduled for Wednesday, Oct. 19 at the Pizza Hut in Mountain Home. I hope you can meet with them.

Sincerely,

-- Amy Elder, Mountain Home