Liberty House

One of the heroes of Salem is my daughter, Gretchen Bennett who is the Executive Director of Liberty House in Salem, Oregon. She works tirelessly to "stop the hurt" of the abused child. The website is www.libertyhousecenter.com. Liberty House is a center where cases of suspected child abuse and neglect are helped by trained professionals sensitive to the special needs of the child.

Dick Withnell of Salem, a local car dealer and community leader has given the Board at Liberty House a challenge to raise $35,000. by the end of June. If they are successful without Gretchen's help, he will match the donations with his own check for $35,000. Dick Withnell is a true hero who makes a difference to help children.

More heroes in Salem.... So far this week, Walt Beglau from the Marion County District Attorney's Office walked through the door with a check for $6,000. Pietro's Pizza, where I remember enjoying lots of pizza, pledged a donation of $5,000. The Salem Elks donated $2,000. Let's see what other heroes there are in Salem who care about children and will come forward to help this great cause.

In looking at the list of the Board members of Liberty House, I see that Tim Murphy from Salem Hospital is the Chair and President of the Liberty Board. That contact alone should bring in the money. If I remember correctly, Salem Hospital is THE largest employer in Salem or at least used to be. With all the doctors and nurses who should care about this issue, it should be a piece of cake for Mr. Murphy to walk in with a big check.

Maybe there are other wealthy community members, like Dick Withnell, who will also meet the challenge of matching his donation of $35,000. Another great fund raiser for Liberty House would be to raffle off a new car. Everyone wants to win a new car and I can see a long line of people to buy tickets. Maybe enough money will be raised so that every child's needs who are abused in the Salem area will be met plus money left over for prevention.

Gretchen would make a great guest on the Oprah Show. I know that the issue of child abuse is important to Oprah and she cares. Maybe Oprah would consider making a donation to Liberty House.

I'm sure that the Liberty House Board will live up to the challenge. Gretchen inspires loyalty and trust. I remember when Gretchen brought back the trophies in debate for Lewis and Clark College in Portland. Her skill as a facilitator, grant writer, and administrator are equal to all the greats across this country. She works hard and has the courage to stand up for difficult issues. You go girl!