Twenty years ago, a child reporting abuse would share their experience with different investigators an average of six to eight times. Some children may have had to testify in court.

That barrier sometimes caused children to retract their statements just to avoid the difficulties they’d face in a courtroom, said Chris Jernigan, executive director of the McDowell County Children’s Advocacy Center.

This year marks the 15th year the advocacy center has helped remove that barrier for McDowell County children.

The GEARS Program at Southmountain Foster Community offers more than just the thrill of dirt bike riding—it’s a transformative experience designed to equip foster youth with essential life skills. With the support of a local motorcycle riders club, GEARS blends adventure with personal development, using dirt bikes as a powerful tool for teaching goal-setting, resilience, environmental stewardship, and responsibility. Participants don’t just learn to ride; they gain a sense of agency, discipline, and confidence that extends far beyond the trails. Through classroom instruction, hands-on maintenance, and structured mentorship, this unique program challenges youth to push their limits, set and achieve personal goals, and develop habits that will serve them for life—on and off the bike.

Childhood sexual abuse is a public health problem that affects millions of children and their nonoffending caregivers each year.

This month we celebrate the work anniversary of two dedicated staff members. Thank you, Danny (25 years) and Beth (34 years)!