It’s almost time to ‘come on down’ and help fight child abuse in Lincoln County

Some of the more exciting prizes, in addition to the four-wheeler, include a new trike from Trident Trike, four tickets to Disneyland, four tickets to Dollywood, a large Green Egg cooker, a leather sofa from Bradington-Young Furniture, a dental package from Dr. Steve Austin, a week’s vacation in Puerto Vallarta, cash prizes, and so much more.

There is a new “Drew Carey” this year – Mike Wirth from the Lincoln Theatre Guild is stepping into the shoes normally filled by Cecil Smith who will be helping to direct this year. Barry Burleson will be returning to play Rod Roddy complete with flamboyant apparel. This is about the 15^th year Burleson has filled this role. 

The funds raised from this event are considered nondiscretionary and are used for expenses that may not be covered under state and federal grant programs or in the event of federal and state funding shortfalls. 

“We never know how many children we’re going to serve each year,” Reinhardt said. “Sometimes we underwrite grants, sometimes there’s needs that come up for different therapies. One of the things the funds we raise this year are going to help us do is to get our new therapy dog, Jake trained.”

The child advocacy center has been using a service dog, Cali, since 2019. Cali was recently diagnosed with a health condition which is going to limit her ability to do some of her duties. 

“We hope the community will send prayers for Cali,” Reinhardt said. “She’s going through some treatment and hopes to be back soon, maybe not in full capacity.”

Jake, a black Labradoodle was purchased by Rich Lyon, a State Farm Insurance agent based in Denver. At six months old, Jake will go to the same training group that trained Cali. The puppy is named after the Jake from State Farm character. 

“Rich’s wife is one of our trauma focus therapists so she’s very invested and knows how much help Cali is for therapy,” Reinhardt said. “She wants us to be able to continue the legacy.”

As detailed in the report provided to the commissioners, the Department of Social Services investigated 800 cases of abuse, neglect and dependency in Lincoln County which involved 2,124 children. The department provided voluntary outreach services to 77 families and assisted other counties with another 283 cases of abuse and neglect.

The Lincoln County Child Advocacy Center served 227 of the most severe cases in 2022.

The Price is Right for Fighting Child Abuse will be held this year on Saturday, March 11 at the James W. Warren Citizens Center in Lincolnton. Doors will open at 5 p.m. for food and free games for children and adults. The main event starts at 6 p.m. Tickets can be purchased at the door for $10, children 12 and under are free.