Can I vent for a few moments? My heart is broken by a system that is as broken as my heart. A system that is SUPPOSED to protect the children, yet once again, we observed the tragic reality of a lack of caring for those most vulnerable. Here at Shepherd Community we work with this state agency many times, and we have become so disillusioned by actions, words and sometimes, lack of action on behalf of the children.

A recent case involved a small child with injuries from a parent, and we did what the law requires us to do- report it. Yet, the staff member comes and observes a very active child. This employee states that this child “needs to stop being bad, because this is why this happens.” Unbelievable that those tasked with protecting would somehow authorize abuse ?????? Who is to protect the children from those who we think are protecting them??

Is it any wonder that our state rates low on the safety of our children? If you are tired of helping kids get another job! Someone has to be their voice. But who will listen?

jay

Let me give you another view of an Indiana Pacer. I, like many of you, have read the news stories, but on Monday I saw a player who defied all stereotypes. Danny Granger came out to spend some time with the students and to help them by co-chairing our Race to a Million campaign, a goal of collecting a million coins for our programs for kids.

What I saw was a guy who cared, was maybe a bit shy, but fully engaged with the students. Shooting coins into water bottles, I saw him express his love and compassion in a genuine way. He took time with one of our young heroes. “Bobby” is a young man who has defied the doctors by still being alive at 20. He graduated this year and is one of those I admire. Born with Down Syndrome and needing a trac, He has lots of challenges, but he always has a smile, a joke, and a hug. Well, he started talking to Danny and this Pacer took time to hear him and speak with him. Many in life would have passed him up, but not the NBA player. He made this young man’s day by chatting with him and giving him a hug. Ii saw another young man I greatly admire take time to help translate for his friend to Mr. Granger.

Well, let me tell you, this Pacer was an all-star for a day with our kids. He is a genuine superstar to them. This is not an obligation , but a true reflection of a great ballplayer and a true reflection of our city.

He made a slamdunk for these kids…..Go Pacers!

jay