Bikers With Big Hearts: An Evening With Bikers Against Child Abuse
I don't get out much. My dear friend Frank Gambino points this out often. Getting up in the wee dark hours for the K2 Radio Morning Show has pretty much put the brakes on many evening activities, but I was lured out to the Beacon Club last Thursday for an event to benefit some really cool people, a group doing something you might not expect if you're sticking to stereotypes.
I first met some folks from Bikers Against Child Abuse LaBonte Canyon Chapter at First Night in Casper, a family-friendly, no-substances-allowed New Year's Eve celebration. My son took a shine to Chuey, Lady Dye, Trick, and the rest not just because they're bikers (a current fascination) but because of the work they do.
B.A.C.A. works with family services and the courts to help and empower victims of child abuse. They help the victim regain a sense of confidence and power, by letting them have control of "scary bikers" (their description, not mine). And they do much more.
Here's their mission statement, from the National website:
"Bikers Against Child Abuse, Inc. (B.A.C.A.) exists with the intent to create a safer environment for abused children. 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. We work in conjunction with local and state officials who are already in place to protect children. We desire to send a clear message to all involved with the abused child that this child is part of our organization, and that we are prepared to lend our physical and emotional support to them by affiliation, and our physical presence. We stand at the ready to shield these children from further abuse. We do not condone the use of violence or physical force in any manner, however, if circumstances arise such that we are the only obstacle preventing a child from further abuse, we stand ready to be that obstacle."
On Thursday, April 27th, I ventured out to Thankful Thursday at the Beacon Club for a fundraiser for B.A.C.A., as Rodeo Rick of My Country 95.5 (looking fine in his western dress duds, I must say) worked his auctioneering magic to raise more than $11,300.00 for the group. I know they'll put those funds to work in a great way to benefit the children that need our help the most. Excellent work, my friends, it's a privilege to know you.
Oh, and I may have jumped into the auction and scored some biker gear. I may loan out the leathers and helmet to the boys, but mitts off my Orange County Choppers jacket. All mine.
Susan Burk, K2 Radio Morning Show