Photo caption: Guardian Bank presents a check to the Children’s Advocacy Center as part of the “A Moving Story” capital campaign.

The Lowndes County Children’s Advocacy Center has launched “A Moving Story” capital campaign to raise $250,000 to assist in relocating to a larger facility. 

Lowndes County and the CAC received a $500,000 grant from the Georgia Department of Community Affairs for the purpose of constructing a 4,200-square-foot building, which will double the center’s current size. 

According to Susan Atwell, executive director of the CAC, the land was donated by Mala Vallotton in memory of her late husband, Joseph E. Vallotton. In a statement issued by the CAC, she stated, “My husband would be proud to know that this land is being given to a well deserving organization such as the CAC to better the lives of children in need of a new beginning.”

Atwell says that as the building project moves forward, there are additional costs associated not covered in the grant funding. 

While the grant will cover the cost of construction, items such as furnishings, window blinds, a phone system, computer equipment to include laptops, additional forensic equipment, medical equipment, therapy resources, and other items are still needed for the new center.

According to Atwell, Guardian Bank recently donated $3,000 to the campaign, which was one of the first substantial contributions toward the building fundraising efforts. 

“With this donation, the good people at Guardian Bank have shown their support for the important work done on behalf of the children served at the CAC, and are helping to lead the way to a successful fundraising campaign,” Atwell said. “Support from our business community is important, not only in raising money for the campaign, but as partners in and champions of the CAC’s ongoing mission to provide healing and hope to the child victims of sexual abuse and domestic violence.”

Parrish Clark, CEO of Guardian Bank expressed the bank’s appreciation toward the important service the CAC provides to the community.

“Guardian Bank is committed to Valdosta-Lowndes County, its citizens, and the organizations that work to improve the lives of its residents,” said Clark. “We are especially grateful to organizations like the Children's Advocacy Center that work to support and protect our children. Our area is fortunate to have dedicated and passionate people at the CAC to help children who have endured very difficult circumstances. We hope that our contribution aids in that effort and has a positive impact on the lives of children in need.”

The capital campaign has a variety of giving levels including: Bronze ($2,500 - $4,999), Silver ($5,000 – 9,999), Gold ($10,000 - $14,999), Platinum ($15,000 - $19,000) and Sapphire ($20,000 or more). Donations at any monetary level are accepted and greatly appreciated. 

The CAC of Lowndes County is a facility-based program that works in partnership with law enforcement, child protective services, legal services, and the mental health and medical community to investigate, treat, and prosecute child abuse cases. 

In 2015, the CAC provided services to 774 children including 1,692 therapy sessions. Atwell says the number of children seen in 2015 increased by 30 percent over 2014 numbers, and that the 2016 numbers may be even larger. 

For more information, contact Susan Atwell at 229-245-5362 or email [email protected]. Visit the CAC website at www.caclowndes.org.