Senate Resolution No. 600 BY: Senator KENNEDY COMMENDING Bikers Against Child Abuse (BACA) for their steadfast dedication to the health and welfare of our young people WHEREAS, It is the custom of this Legislative Body to recognize that the quality and character of life in the communities across New York State are reflective of the concerned and dedicated efforts of those organizations and individuals who would devote themselves to the welfare of the community and its citizenry; and WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its long-standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to commend Bikers Against Child Abuse (BACA) for their steadfast dedication to the health and welfare of our young people; and WHEREAS, BACA was founded by a licensed clinical social worker and registered play therapist to address the fear and subsequent behavior reactions of abused children through his love for motorcycles; and WHEREAS, The mental health professional was confronted with a particularly difficult case involving an eight-year-old boy who refused to leave his house due to the fear of his perpetrator; he sought the support of fellow bikers to volunteer to provide an empowering experience for the boy through social support therapy; and WHEREAS, With permission from the boy's guardians, 27 motorcycles and nearly 40 people from clubs, organizations, and solo riders responded and rode as one group to the child's home; they dismounted, greeted the child, and offered him a ride on a motorcycle, which he accepted; within hours of his ride the boy was observed outside his house riding his bicycle on his own; and WHEREAS, This idea led to the formation of BACA on a local level, which grew regionally; today, BACA has progressed into an international organization in 47 states and 18 countries; and WHEREAS, BACA works in conjunction with local agencies and fills a gap in existing services and agencies and fulfills an unmet need within the community; putting into practice the experience of the founder, BACA is based upon the finding that positive social support may modulate the trauma experience by a child through addressing their feelings of fear, anxiety, and trust and encouraging a sense of safety, based on a stable, reliable presence; and WHEREAS, BACA attempts to meet the needs of abused children living in fear by providing a presence during a crisis, where and when needed 24 hours a day, seven days a week through its volunteers; they strive to always show up and be there; and WHEREAS, The Buffalo Chapter of BACA was founded in 2014, and serves Erie, Wyoming, Chautauqua and Cattaraugus counties, and is currently led by President Gonzo who is one of the founding members; members are known by their road names for the protection of the children, as well as the members serving the children; other members of the Buffalo executive board include Hawk, Vice President; Ironhead, Secretary; Pipi, Treasurer; and Bull, Sergeant at Arms; and WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body that those who enhance the well-being and vitality of their community and have shown a long and sustained commitment to excellence certainly have earned the recognition and applause of all the citizens of this great Empire State; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to commend Bikers Against Child Abuse (BACA) for their steadfast dedication to the health and welfare of our young people; and be it further RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be transmitted to Gonzo, President, Bikers Against Child Abuse (BACA).