Poker tourney to help prevent child abuse

It's a problem none of us like to think about. But truth is, every day there are children in our area who are mistreated or neglected.

But luckily there are groups like the Lowcountry's Child Abuse Prevention Association that work to bring the numbers down.

"We have the shelter for the abused and neglected children and the number of children stay relatively the same,” CAPA’s Katie Grindle said. “The ages are what change significantly. We've seen a much younger population in the shelter which means, we're doing our job. The kids are more comfortable talking about it earlier. And that's a good thing."

The group credits much of the improvements to their programs like in-school counseling where a CAPA worker talks to children about the signs of abuse. But in order to keep those running, CAPA has to turn to the community for help. This Saturday is their Texas Hold ‘em poker tournament but some already have their game-faces on.

With such steady eyes, you'd think Brenda Moore's been in the game for years.

Have you played before?” WSAV asked Moore. “No- never,” she admitted. “As far as gamblin’ goes I just like to pull the arm. I'm a one armed bandit."

But by foolin' ya like that- this just might be her game. Like the rest of the some 10 brave souls, she's signed up to be a dealer at the CAPA poker tournament and for a first-timer there's a lot to grasp. But all the rules and regulations aside- the dealers also carry the title volunteer- a job they can count on reaping major rewards since it all benefits child abuse prevention.

The tournament is Saturday at 5:00 at the Officer’s Club at Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort. There's a $150 entry fee. To sign up just call CAPA at 843-524-4350.

News Added: 22 August, 2007

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