Western Slope Center for Children

01/28/2026

Check out what’s new at the center! ⬇️🐾

Mowgli, Rachael's little brother, has been officially certified as a Therapy Dog through Canine Companions. His duties will be somewhat different from Rachael's, as he will be focusing on therapy visits rather than court attendance and forensic interviewers. Like Rachael, Mowgli was bred, raised, and trained by Canine Companions. He is a very calm, 2 year old Labrador mix who loves people! We are excited to add this adorable new addition to our team, and to see the PAWsitive impact he will have on the Center’s therapy clients! 💙🐾

01/23/2026

⭐️Feature Friday⭐️

Meet Kristi! Kristi is a caseworker for the Department of Human Services. Kristi had been with the department for a year and a half. In that time, she has made a tremendous impact on the lives of children and families. Kristi’s favorite part about her job is being able to advocate for the safety and well-being of children in Mesa County.

When not at work, you can find Kristi going to the gym, or exploring a new hiking spot! 🥾🏔️

When asked about her favorite thing about working with the MDT at the Center, Kristi had this to share: “One of my favorite aspects of working with MDT is the strong collaboration between agencies, coming together with a shared goal of supporting and protecting families.”

Thank you, Kristi, for doing the work that you do and for being a part of our team! 💙✨

01/14/2026

01/11/2026

Today is National Day Against Human Trafficking, a day to pause, reflect, and stand together for the millions of people—especially children—who are exploited, silenced, and harmed by trafficking every year.

Human trafficking doesn’t always look like what we see in movies. It happens in our communities, online, and in places we least expect. It can look like manipulation, coercion, grooming, or someone being controlled by fear rather than chains.

The good news? Awareness saves lives. When we learn the signs, speak up, and support survivors, we become part of the solution. Every conversation, every shared resource, and every act of compassion matters.

If you or someone you know needs help, you can call or text the National Human Trafficking Hotline at 1-888-373-7888 or text “HELP” to 233733 — it’s confidential and available 24/7.

Let today be more than a post. Let it be a promise to protect, to notice, and to stand up for those who cannot always stand for themselves. 💙

01/09/2026

We are grateful for the Grand Junction Police Dept., Fruita Police Dept., Palisade Police Dept., Mesa County Sheriff’s office, and the 21st Judicial Investigators for the critical work they do to support justice and protect our community. Thank you for your service and partnership. 🤝💙

12/19/2025

🌟Feature Friday🌟

Meet investigator Jenna Reed with the Mesa County Sheriff’s Office. Investigator Reed has been with the sheriff’s office for 25 years, and has served as an investigator for 8 of those years. Within those years, Jenna has helped countless victims and been a fierce advocate for them. Jenna’s favorite part about the work that she does is speaking for those who cannot speak for themselves.

When not working, Jenna enjoys traveling and exploring new places. ✈️🏝️

When asked about her favorite part about working with the Center and the Multi-disciplinary team, Jenna said that she enjoys collaborating with various individuals in order to build a strong case for the victims that she serves.

Thank you Investigator Reed for serving the children and victims of Mesa County! Your passion and dedication makes a tremendous difference in the lives of those you encounter.💙✨

12/18/2025

A huge THANK YOU to Barnes & Noble 📚❤️ for their incredible generosity at the book fair! From thoughtful donations to helping bring books to kids this holiday season. Your support is making a real difference. These books will not only spark joy and imagination, but also play an important role in therapy and healing. We are so grateful for your kindness and partnership. 🎄✨

12/17/2025

Collbren and Sierra, the Center’s forensic interviewers, were serving up cookies with a side of holiday cheer to our wonderful MDT partners! 🍪🎁

During this season of gratitude and reflection, the Center would like to extend a huge thank you to all of our partners who help make a tremendous difference in the lives of children and victims!💙

12/15/2025

A heartfelt thank you to the Queen and Olinger family for the generous snacks, gifts and supplies. Your kindness and support make a real difference, and we are truly grateful 🤍

12/11/2025

During this season of warmth and hope, we would like to thank all those special groups who continually support us in bringing help, hope, and healing to child victims here in Mesa County!

The Rocky Mountain Health Foundation (RMHF) was originally the brainchild of Rocky Mountain Health Plans (RMHP). RMHP was developed decades ago on the concept that healthy living should be accessible to all. The foundation that was later formed embodied this idea, becoming a statewide supporter of building a healthier society. Today, RMHF addresses critical access services for physical health, behavioral health, and basic needs in underserved communities.

On behalf of our board, staff, contractors, and clients, thank you to United Way of Mesa County for constantly being a difference maker for children and their families!

12/09/2025

✨ There’s still time to give this Colorado Gives Day! Visit c4cdonate.org to donate today and make a difference that lasts for years to come.

The children of Mesa County need our help now more than ever. Your gift provides hope, help and healing when it’s needed most.

Thank you for standing with the kids in our community. 💛

12/09/2025

It's the homestretch for Colorado Gives 2025! This philanthropic effort, made possible by the wonderful Colorado Gives Foundation and people like you, provides support to countless Colorado nonprofits each year. The 2025 window for giving closes by the end of Tuesday, December 9th, where donations made to applicable organizations receive a percentage-based match by an incentive fund.

If you haven't supported a nonprofit through Colorado Gives before, perhaps you will consider us. The *Western Slope Center for Children is a nationally-accredited child advocacy center that provides support for child abuse victims and their family members. This year, we've already eclipsed the total number of Mesa County children served in all of 2024.

Be part of the Help, Hope, and Healing that happens here. Visit c4cdonate.org to donate today!

*The Western Slope Center for Children is partnered together with Grand Valley Gives