Dear Friends,

I am often approached by friends and colleagues who ask how the Angels staff avoids becoming discouraged by the constant onslaught of child maltreatment in the face of a seriously challenged Child Welfare system. While there are certainly days when we feel like we are swimming upstream, the answer is simple: the babies.

If you have been to our office in Mission Valley (and I encourage you all to stop by), you know that the walls are covered with photographs of some of the children Angels has rescued over the past 14 years. These gorgeous pictures, each representing a little life saved, offer a constant reminder of our critical work. Every family, every child, every story offers hope and a shot at a healthier childhood.

Then there are the smiling, cuddly, and toddling ones who come to visit. Whenever one of our wonderful families stops by with the little one in tow, our entire staff drops everything to come out and play. No phone call, email, or deadline is too important to be interrupted when there is a kiddo in the house. Even the most frustrating day can be turned into a gift by a moment spent snuggling a newborn or playing catch with an irrepressible toddler.

Every child welcomed into our Angels family gets a second chance. There is nothing more inspiring. That is why my emails are signed with the phrase, "Bloom where you are planted." Our little ones certainly do.

Thank you for supporting our kiddos. We depend on you to help us fight for all our children.

With April hugs for your little ones,

Rachel