Safe Haven for Kids and Teens Receives Agua Caliente Grant
A Rancho Mirage counseling center for abused children is the recent recipient of a $10,000 grant by the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians.
The Barbara Sinatra Children’s Center serves youngsters and teens who have been victimized by sexual, emotional or physical abuse. Founded by Frank and Barbara Sinatra in 1986, the center serves hundreds of children and their families. Services are subsidized by donations, and no one is turned away because of an inability to pay.
“While the Tribe has been fortunate to be able to assist, I admire and respect Barbara Sinatra and everyone at the center for taking on the challenge,” said Tribal Chairman Richard M. Milanovich. “After 22 years of operation, they’ve made an enormous difference in the lives of so many.”
Executive Director Susan Reynolds said the center offers group and family counseling as well as anger management lessons in a friendly and safe environment. Young clients, referred to the center by teachers, public safety, social services, Child Protective Services, law enforcement, private physicians, self-referrals and others, are assessed by professional counselors who work with the victims over several months or more, according to Reynolds.
The Tribe has donated more than $287,000 to the children’s center since 2000.