Nurturing Young Lives

Three years ago on August 23rd, staff and community partners gathered to launch our Children’s Safe Exchange and Visitation program. Continuation of these vital services was necessary after the closure of Sunflower Kids.

More than 8,000 safe visitations and exchanges have been provided since the ribbon-cutting ceremony. Services are provided from two locations in downtown Lexington and Georgetown.

“Children deserve connection and bonding without worrying about conflict, intimidation, control, and further abuse,” says Darlene Thomas, Executive Director.  

Visitation and monitored exchanges are facilitated without contact between adult parties, keeping program participants safe throughout the process. This is also beneficial to the children so they do not have to potentially witness any intimidation, manipulation, or abuse between parents.  

Thank You 

AU Associates donates the program’s Lexington office space, while Georgetown Police provides in-kind space for services in Scott County.  Partnerships with Lexington Police, Friend of the Court, and Family Court judges also support the program.

Startup funds were provided by LFUCG Department of Social Services, through the Department of Special Grants and Programs.

Primary funding for the program now comes from VOCA – Victims of Crime Act – awarded through the Kentucky Justice and Public Safety Cabinet by the U.S. Department of Justice.