Due to the disastrous event in Haiti on January 12, 2010, ACGC has expanded its goals for this year’s race. Keeping in mind our mission and dedication to improving the lives of children and families, we would like to extend our mission overseas to those children and families suffering in Haiti. We will contribute 20 percent of our total donations from the Austin Marathon campaign to the American Red Cross International Disaster Relief Fund in the efforts to provide aide to Haiti.

Current relief efforts are focused on basic needs, such as food, shelter, and medical attention, eventual support will be needed to address the issues of grief, loss, and trauma. ACGC addresses similar issues as we continue to work with survivors experiencing Post- Traumatic Stress from Hurricanes Katrina and Rita. We have seen the overwhelming and devastating effects of disaster, but also know that change and healing are possible. By contributing 20% of our Austin Marathon donations to the Haiti relief efforts, we invite you to help us reach out to those families affected in Haiti’s tragic earthquake, while also helping the children and families in our community.

In 1951 Austin Child Guidance Center opened its doors and began serving the most vulnerable citizens in our community—children experiencing emotional behavior problems.

Children who suffer from mental health issues are at a much higher risk of dropping out of school, juvenile delinquency and anti-social behavior. More than 80 percent of these at-risk children will not receive any treatment because their families have limited income, or because they have limited or no health care insurance.

A community-based nonprofit dedicated solely to children’s mental health, Austin Child Guidance Center works with youth who are experiencing sadness due to loss, trauma or abuse; depression or anxiety; ADHD; school phobia/truancy; and suicidal ideation. Families with children involved in juvenile crime or other risktaking behaviors have access to treatment. Parents can seek help as well by taking part in family therapy or the Center’s parenting classes.

At Austin Child Guidance Center, a team of experts—including medical doctors (psychiatrists), psychologists, social workers and counselors—work collaboratively to tailor services to fit the needs of each child and every family. Individual, family, and group therapy; psychological assessments and psychiatric evaluations; parenting classes; and community consultations and presentations are all major components of the Center’s work to help children and families create emotional healthy lives.

Austin Child Guidance Center serves all segments of the community and offers a sliding fee scale for families who might not otherwise be able to afford mental health Using a sliding fee scale, based upon family size and income, children from infant to age 17 and their family members can seek the mental health assistance they so desperately need. No one is ever turned away from Austin Child Guidance Center for inability to pay.

*Austin Child Guidance Center is a Non-Profit Organization therefore we posses a 501 (c) (3) status. Donations may be written off for tax purposes.