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The Story Behind the Mission...
Drawing has always been an important part of my life. For many years I dreamed of making a living doing something I love. In 1989, I began producing stationery note cards from pencil illustrations and selling them to family, neighbors, friends, co-workers and local gift shops. My tiny business grew as I received numerous calls for drawings of houses, children, pets and business logos. Before long, my attempts to fill so many requests became impossible! I was unable to meet the demands of business as I worked full-time, raised three children and completed a degree in Fine Arts. I had to reluctantly table my artwork. But, I knew one day I would return to my life ambition and dream. That was many years ago. With my children grown, and my college days behind me, I am now more determined than ever to reach that dream, but with a more worthwhile focus! The Dysfunktional Card Co. plans to carry an important (and personal) message to a very special population: survivors of childhood sexual abuse and their loved ones. Contributing copy, editing and two decades of experience in the field of child abuse, is my good friend, Judy Rauckhorst, a gifted clinical social worker in private practice through Family Life Today, Inc., in Clearwater, Florida. After years of counseling and education, Judy and I both are recovering survivors of abusive and dysfunctional childhood homes. Because hard work, laughter and tears sustained us through it all, we decided to help others share those same emotions through the use of our wonderful greeting cards and gifts. Together we know that due to ignorance, shame and lack of funding for professional help, many abused children and their families do not know where to turn, remaining in a confusing world of secrets and suffering. Through the "Didja Know?..." column on our website, we hope to increase the critical awareness of the broader definition of childhood sexual abuse. Sadly, there are many people who continue to ignore signs of abuse due to denial and lack of understanding. For the over 7,800,000* children who are sexually abused every year, education, counseling and community awareness is imperative. Thank you for your interest in The Dysfunktional Card Co. We look forward to your business. Remember as profits increase, financial aid to child sexual abuse programs will increase. Please join the mission and share this information with friends and professionals. Become part of this very important cause! With all our heart...Pam Drake, Artist and Founder, Judy Rauckhorst, MSW, LCSW *"Not with My Child: Combating What predators Do to Sexually Abuse & Silence Children" Editor, Roger Castillo, 1999, Published by United Youth Security Corp. |
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