The Children’s Advocacy Center of Independence County held its 2nd annual Harvesting Hope Gala Thursday, September 24, at Lyon College’s Scottish Heritage Building in Batesville.
The event brought together community members and professionals who support the center’s work with children and families affected by abuse.
Rhonda Woods, executive director of the Children’s Advocacy Center of Independence County, said the gala had a strong turnout that included members of the center’s multidisciplinary team, law enforcement representatives, advocates and the Division of Children and Family Services.
“We had so many wonderful people show up tonight, and our community showed up,” Woods said. “We just appreciate everybody that was here tonight.”
Woods said the Children’s Advocacy Center served 216 children during 2025.
The center serves children and families in Independence, Izard, Sharp, Fulton and Stone counties.
Woods also said 859 child abuse reports were made across the 5-county service area during that period, with 216 children receiving services through the center.
Investigator Brenda Biddle of the Batesville Police Department won the most caring for children award.
The Harvesting Hope Gala featured dinner and drinks, raffle items and a surprise auction.
Ben Johnson served as master of ceremonies throughout the event. Cave City SkillsUSA students also helped work the event.
The Children’s Advocacy Center uses a multidisciplinary approach to help children receive support and services in a safe and coordinated setting.
The annual gala helps bring attention to the center’s mission and the continuing need for community support for children throughout the region.
