The Junior League of Springfield (JLS) is funneling its resources to address Child Abuse and Neglect in our community. It is alarming that child abuse rates in Greene County far exceed the state average. The Junior League will impact this issue through advocacy, direct service and volunteer time. We will collaborate with local experts to develop strong intervention programs, raise community awareness and be part of the solution.

In the 2007 - 2008 league year, JLS will contribute monies and volunteer hours to several projects:

Junior League of Springfield Signature Project:
Isabel's House, the Crisis Nursery of the Ozarks
JLS has committed to address the issues of child abuse and neglect by advocating, fundraising, and volunteering to open Isabel's House, a proven tool for the prevention of child abuse and neglect. We will continue to focus and collaborate with our community partners on this project. Some of the Done in a Day (DIAD) service opportunities that will take place at Isabel's house this year include Cooking For Kid's, planting seasonal flowers, administrative duties, holiday decorating and parties, fun projects for the children, and more.

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Bailey Alternative High School Nursery
This project will provide an updated safe nursery environment for babies and children while their parents are completing their high school education. It will help with modeling and promoting appropriate and quality daycare for these children by being in a safe facility.

The Kid's Clothes Closet
The Kid's Clothes Closet is a component of The Council of Churches, which provides clothing for Greene County foster children. This project serves over 800 children in the Greene County Children's Division.

Discovery Center Fun Day
Discovery Center Fun Day will be providing an interactive day for approximately 350 children and Casa Advocates to have fun and be recognized. This event will provide abused and neglected children an opportunity to form a strong bond with an adult, a child advocate, by sharing a unique experience of learning together at the Discovery Center.

Domestic Violence? We can Help!
This project will serve victims of abuse and domestic violence by providing them the contact information to get the help they need. The Family Violence Center, Inc. provides shelter, advocacy and education to women and children who are victims of domestic violence and promotes the principle that all individuals have the right to a life free from abuse.