E6: What makes Kathleen Baumgardner with ChildSafe Colorado a good neighbor?

When childhood trauma goes unaddressed, the consequences can last a lifetime. That's why the work of ChildSafe Colorado, now celebrating 39 years of service in Fort Collins with a new Loveland location, remains so vital to our community. Founder Kathleen Baumgardner joins us to reveal the often invisible struggle of child abuse victims and the remarkable healing journey that proper therapy can provide.

The numbers tell a powerful story: the average client at ChildSafe is just seven years old, with notable clusters at ages four and eleven. Yet perhaps most surprising is that many survivors don't seek help until much later in life, with a significant spike in first-time clients between ages 48-52. Their oldest client is 84 years old – powerful evidence that it's never too late to begin healing from childhood trauma.

Kathleen dispels common misconceptions about reporting suspected abuse and emphasizes that multiple reports can make the difference between a family receiving help or suffering in silence. With less than 2% of their funding coming from clients, ChildSafe relies on community support to maintain their team of 15 full-time therapists who provide specialized, trauma-informed care. Beyond her professional dedication, Kathleen shares her personal passion for wildlife photography – a reminder that those doing the most challenging work often find unique ways to restore their own spirits. If you or someone you know needs support dealing with childhood trauma, reach out to ChildSafe Colorado at 970-472-4133 or visit their website – because as Kathleen reminds us, "Help is here."

To learn more about ChildSafe Colorado go to:
https://www.childsafecolorado.org/

ChildSafe Colorado
970-472-4133