Mission Updates :: March 2025

:: Celebrating 50 Years of Impact

Traveling Through CAPA's Timeline

Throughout our anniversary year, we'll share spotlights on our history in our newsletter and other communications. We hope you enjoy this walk down memory lane with us.

This month, we're highlighting our roots and a unique piece of community history beyond CAPA's mission.

January 1975

In 1975, a group of concerned citizens and community leaders came together with a shared mission: to address the growing issue of child abuse in our community. Their first meetings took place at Independence Sanitarium and Hospital, a trusted healthcare institution that had served the region since 1928.

The Independence Sanitarium and Hospital, November 1942.

On January 28, 1975, local advocates gathered at the hospital to formally establish CAPA and develop critical child abuse prevention and family support programs, including:

• A lay therapy program to support parents
• A 24-hour crisis hotline staffed by trained professionals
• Educational awareness programs to prevent abuse before it starts

In CAPA’s early years, the hospital remained a key partner, hosting 554 parent awareness group discussions. Though the facility closed in 2007, part of the site was repurposed into the Independence Ennovation Center.

Fifty years later, CAPA continues the work that began in those hospital meeting rooms—building a future where every child can grow up safe, supported, and free to be a kid.

We'd love to hear from you if you or a loved one have a special memory or connection to CAPA's history! Please send a message to our Development Team at development@capacares.org.

:: CAPA Receives Gift of Sole Donation

Stepping Up for Kids

We are so grateful to have been chosen as one of the recipients of KSHB 41’s Gift of Sole program this year! Our clients were able to request a pair of brand-name sneakers in their size and style, and we were able to distribute 100 pairs of brand new shoes! A new pair of sneakers is more than just something to wear—it can help with feelings of confidence and happiness. We are so thankful to KSHB 41 and everyone who donated to make this possible. Your generosity is bringing smiles, confidence, and hope—one pair of sneakers at a time!

:: Simple Ways to Connect and Reduce Stress

Building Stronger Families, One Moment at a Time

Strong, healthy families help create safe, nurturing environments where children can thrive. Between busy schedules, work responsibilities, and everyday stress, sometimes finding time to connect as a family can feel overwhelming. The good news? Small moments can make a big impact.

Here are five simple ways to strengthen family bonds and manage stress together:

1. Create a Family Ritual Whether it’s a Friday night pizza party, a daily bedtime story, or a Sunday afternoon walk, family rituals create a sense of stability and belonging. Even small, consistent traditions help children feel safe and connected.
2. Practice Mindful Moments Together Try a short, family-friendly mindfulness activity like deep breathing, stretching, or gratitude journaling. A few minutes of calm can help reset emotions and ease stress.
3. Make Time for One-on-One Connection Children crave individual attention. Try to set aside 10 minutes a day for one-on-one time with each child—whether it’s playing a quick game, drawing together, or chatting before bed.
4. Encourage Open Conversations Create a habit of checking in with each other about feelings. Simple questions like, “What was the best part of your day?” or “Is there anything on your mind?” help build trust and emotional connection.
5. Get Moving as a Family Physical activity is a great stress reliever! Have a spontaneous dance party, go for a bike ride, or play a game outside. Moving together boosts mood and strengthens family relationships.

For more ideas, check out our free worksheet!

:: Individual and Family counseling for Kids and Adults

Welcoming New Counseling Clients

:: 2025 Sponsors & Mission Partners

Leading the Way to a Safer Community

You can join Speaks Chapels as a sponsor in 2025! Mission and event sponsorship opportunities ranging from $500 to $10,000 are available. The 2025 Sponsorship Opportunities Packet is now live!

Your investment doesn't just fuel CAPA’s vital work, it also highlights your organization’s commitment to strengthening our community. To learn more, please contact Amanda Jackson, VP of Development, at ajackson@capacares.org or 816-252-8388 x 313.