Common Sense Reminders

Denver Kids are good kids, but many live in a difficult environment. Substance abuse, AIDS, abusive relationships and violence can be part of their daily lives.

Because of their close involvement with the kids, the DKI counselors often will know if your Denver Kid is faced with these or other problems. They’ll share that information and work with you on how it impacts your relationship with your Denver Kid. But there may be things going on in the child’s life that the counselors don’t know.

Today it’s an unfortunate fact-of-life that anyone can be exposed to crime, abuse, violence and communicable disease. So please use the same common sense with your Denver Kid that you use in other situations.

Be aware of your surroundings and park in a safe place. Lock your car. Don’t leave valuables in sight.

Remember that even good kids can be tempted! Please make sure your Denver Kid doesn’t have access to “life’s little temptations” when he or she visits your home (for example, the liquor cabinet, loose cash and other valuables).

If you believe your Denver Kid has a health or substance abuse problem, or is being abused, please notify your counselor immediately.

Protect against disease, including AIDS, by following standard precautions. Body fluids from anyone can present a risk of infection, so avoid direct contact with them.

Finally,

• Kids under 12 or 80lbs. must ride in the back seat of the car
• All passengers should have seat belts fastened at all times.
• Friends and siblings of Denver Kids are not insured.

If you want more information about any of these issues, please contact the Volunteer Program Director at 720-423-8133 or Mentor@denverkidsinc.org