News

Hibiscus Children’s Center: Protecting Children During National Safety Month and Every Day

Treasure Coast - During June, we recognize National Safety Month—a vital time to shine a spotlight on the importance of preventing injuries and fostering a culture of safety in every part of our lives. At the heart of this mission is the safety of our children. As the most vulnerable members of our communities and the key to our future, children deserve our commitment to their protection. By coming together, we can build a safer world where every child has the opportunity to grow, thrive, and dream without fear.

Over 40 years ago, Hibiscus Founder LaVaughn Tilton was moved by the lack of safe placements for abused children and envisioned communities where every child could grow up free from abuse. Since then, thousands of children have found refuge at the Tilton Family Children’s Center in Jensen Beach and Hibiscus Village in Vero Beach. Scared and traumatized, these children are welcomed by caring staff and volunteers. Hibiscus provides trauma-informed care, mental health counseling, educational and career services, to help children heal and have a brighter future.

Ava (name changed) was eight when she arrived at the Hibiscus Shelter frightened and alone. She was quickly reassured by the compassionate Hibiscus team and a mental health counselor provided therapy to help Ava heal, feel more confident and learn to cope with the trauma she endured. Ava left Hibiscus but returned many years later to Hibiscus Village. She felt alone and scared again. With the staff’s support and love, Ava was able to focus on school and participated in the Career Pathways to Independence Program which assists teens in preparing for the future. When Ava turned 18, she left Hibiscus with the skills, confidence, and resources to succeed as she began college and her new life. She shared, “I don’t know what I would have done without Hibiscus. I wouldn’t have been on the road to a productive life.”

Thank you to our generous community for helping to change the lives of children and keep them safe. For more information, please visit: HibiscusChildrensCenter.org or contact Michelle King, CDO, at mking@hcc4kids.org.