HUNTSVILLE, Alabama — National Children's Advocacy Center Executive director Chris Newlin said it's a day of celebration. "Once a year, we get to be recognized by the Children's Trust Fund, the Alabama Department of Child Abuse and Neglect Prevention. Today, what happens is we celebrate that we're going to continue making a difference in children's lives," he explained.
Newlin said they are recognized for the work they do. "And also, their commitment of additional funding so that we can continue providing these services for the families and children in our community," he added.
There are about 14 different grantees across North Alabama who receive funds to provide different types of child abuse prevention initiatives. "There's a wide range of programs that are supported by the Children's Trust Fund, and that's what this funding is going to support a safety net for children and families all throughout North Alabama," said Newlin.
Devita Powell is a mother of a 15-year-old and a 20-year-old who each have autism. Both have individual sets of challenges. "This program has been beneficial because sometimes as full-time parents and full-time caregivers, we need the opportunity to recharge, to rest, to connect with our peers, and not just parenting at all times," said Powell.
Powell leaves a word of advice for other parents who have children with autism: reach out to a pediatrician for guidance on matters relating to care. Furthermore, she has another word of advice for those parents who feel overwhelmed. "There's always somebody who may not know exactly the same situation, but they'll they'll be able to listen," she said.