Director of Kid’s Place Advocacy Center Meets with Lawrenceburg Rotary

At Friday’s Lawrenceburg Rotary meeting, Charlsie Legendre, Director of Kids Place Child Advocacy Center, shared powerful insights into the center’s vital mission: advocating for abused children and their families throughout Lawrence, Maury, Giles, and Wayne counties. Now in its 25th year of operation, Kids Place serves as a lifeline for young victims of abuse—working closely with law enforcement, schools, and other agencies to provide safety, healing, and hope. Legendre, who has served as Director for the past three years, noted that the center received over 800 referrals in the past year alone, with 400 children walking through their doors. “Our team includes trained advocates and licensed therapists who walk with children through some of the darkest moments of their lives,” Legendre said. “We don’t just support victims—we equip families and communities to recognize and respond to signs of abuse.” Each year, 150 to 200 children receive direct therapy services from Kids Place. In addition to therapeutic and advocacy efforts, the center also provides adult education on how to spot potential signs of abuse—reinforcing the message that “It’s not just a sign, it can save a life.” April is Child Abuse Prevention Month, and the center is rallying community support through a simple but powerful initiative: Kids Place Shirts. “There are so many stories of people who wear the shirts and spark conversations—it’s a visible sign of solidarity with our children,” said Legendre. Kids Place is funded through federal and state grants, as well as local fundraising events such as their annual gala, Jeep Run, and Demolition Derby. The center’s budget has grown from $600,000 to $1 million over the past three years, reflecting both increased demand and strong community backing. Located in the former Children’s Home on Westpoint Road, Kids Place remains a safe haven and voice for children in need—making an impact that extends far beyond its walls. For more information or to support their work, visit https://kpcac.org. Rotarian Olivia White introduced the program.