During the month of April, in honor of National Child Abuse Prevention month, people across the country are doing what they can to raise awareness. Bikers Against Child Abuse’s (B.A.C.A) Southeast Utah chapter is doing what they can to help out youth in the local area.

“We are a body of bikers that stand together to empower children to have a better life in which they live,” said local member Faye Lee, also known as Broken Wings. “We have approximately 20 members locally, and we cover areas from Sanpete County to Vernal.”

B.A.C.A. is organized with a central contact person to receive calls from referring agencies and individuals. The agency representative contacts B.A.C.A., or refers the individual to contact B.A.C.A. and the name and address of the child is given to the B.A.C.A./Child Liaison.

While April is used to spread awareness, B.A.C.A.’s Southeast Utah’s chapter is gearing up for a fun day set for June 17 to spread their message. The day will begin with a poker ride at Huntington Park beginning at 9:30 a.m.. The park will play host to games and food, which is all made possible by donations from various individuals and businesses from Carbon, Emery and Sanpete Counties.

“Bikers Against Child Abuse started in Provo nearly 17 years ago, and we were the second chapter added,” said Lee. “The group has grown throughout the country and even worked it’s way overseas to Italy and Germany.”

Upon first contact, the child in need is given the name and number of two B.A.C.A. Members residing closest to them. The B.A.C.A. chapter rides to meet the child and is given a vest with a B.A.C.A. patch sewn on the back. The child is also given bumper stickers, and other gifts that are generally donated by the public.
Following this initial contact, the child is given the name and number of two B.A.C.A. Members residing geographically closest to them, who then become the child’s primary contacts.

B.A.C.A. Is completely funded on the generosity and donations from those in the community. The group plays host to a meeting during the second Saturday of each month, and those interested in helping, or finding more information can call 435-637-2236.