When I joined the Board of Council for Children’s Rights, I didn’t expect to one day be Board president. By participating on the board, interacting with leaders, staff, and community members, I came to understand the importance of the Council and the impact that it has on the community.

I couldn’t get enough.

I wanted to do what I could to help our children at risk. Together we care for children and give them a voice – in a way that nobody else can or does. Too many kids fall through the cracks of our society’s systems. Without us, that number would be much higher.

Even in the best of times, there are thousands of children in Mecklenburg County that need support. Now, maybe more than ever, children need support and a voice. The pandemic has taken a toll on all of us. We can’t reverse time. We can’t erase the impact. However, as a community, I ask that we do our best to limit the impact on our children in need.

Let’s be honest with ourselves – the pandemic has increased the wealth gap. Some families are better off financially than they were a year ago; however, many families are far worse off. Let’s not let that dictate the future for our children. Children have needs – financial stability, mental health support, access to the internet for school, etc. They also need a voice and a support system. Join CFCR and help provide the services that these children need.

It may feel like the pandemic is in the rear-view mirror. Only time will tell. Regardless, its impact will be lasting. Let’s come together and minimize the lasting impact on our children.

Sincerely,

Brian Bonaviri
CFCR Board Chair 2021-22