This episode of The Current by TreasureCoast.com features Patrice Bowes with Voices for Children of Okeechobee and the Treasure Coast. Patrice joins the show to explain how they work to support children in foster care, those who have been abused, and others facing trauma and instability across the Treasure Coast region.
What Voices for Children Does
Patrice opens the conversation by outlining the mission of Voices for Children. The organization operates in Martin, St. Lucie, Indian River, and Okeechobee Counties, providing direct support to children in need.
While the group started with ties to the state’s Guardian ad Litem program, it now operates independently and continues to assist agencies like DCF, the State Attorney’s Office, law enforcement, and others. These frontline groups identify children who need help, whether it’s clothing, beds, school supplies, or access to enrichment programs, and submit requests directly through the Voices for Children website.
One point of the discussion focuses on how needs are met. Requests are reviewed by the board, and if approved, the nonprofit either purchases and ships the item directly or transfers funds to caregivers. Voices for Children avoids turning anyone away, instead collaborating with other groups when a request falls outside their scope.
A Typical Day Supporting Vulnerable Youth
Patrice describes her daily work as a mix of operations, outreach, and urgent response. On any given day, she might be working with a case involving a trafficking survivor, securing funding for a child to attend summer camp, or coordinating with law enforcement about emergency needs. “It’s not just about money,” she explains. “Sometimes it’s something as small, but essential as a pair of shoes for prom.”.
Helping the Voices for Children Mission
Patrice emphasizes that community support is the lifeline of the organization. Monthly giving programs, public board meetings at local businesses, and a new merch store all aim to keep people engaged and involved. Even small donations, $25 a month, go a long way. In return, donors receive branded items that help spread awareness and spark conversations.
Patrice also mentions long-time partners like the Treasure Coast Jeep Club, who not only contribute but actively share their personal stories of impact. These testimonials show how deeply the organization is rooted in the community.
When asked about current gaps and needs, Patrice explains her desire to build an ambassador program. With four counties to cover, she’s looking for volunteers who can attend local events, post flyers, and represent Voices for Children at public gatherings. “I can’t be everywhere at once,” she says, “but I know there are people out there who want to help.”
Events that Support the Mission
The episode also touches on several upcoming events. First is a “Teach a Child to Fish” day at Riverside Park in Vero Beach. The free community event includes new fishing poles, snacks, and activities donated by local businesses. The goal isn’t just to get kids outdoors but to foster trust between children and adults in a safe, friendly environment.
Many of the children who attend may have experienced trauma or neglect. For them, simply enjoying a day of fishing can be transformative.
Next up is the “Axes and Madness” event, an axe-throwing fundraiser held at Mad Hatter’s in Stuart. Open to families and adults, the evening aims to offer something fun and unusual while raising money for the cause. Costumes are encouraged, and the facility offers a secure space for participants to relax and engage.
One of the more serious events in the pipeline is “Voices Abound,” a mini-summit focused on human trafficking awareness. Set to include speakers from Homeland Security, the State Attorney’s Office, and restorative wellness experts, the event aims to confront myths and provide actionable information. An interactive audience voting system will be used to spark conversations and correct common misconceptions. There will be a private recording room for attendees who may need to seek help confidentially.
Patrice notes that Florida ranks among the top three states for human trafficking. Despite this, many locals believe the issue doesn’t affect the Treasure Coast. The summit aims to change that narrative and empower people to get involved.
The show also covers ongoing efforts like the toy drive and silent auction.
The goal is to collect 1,000 toys to distribute across the four counties by the end of the year. Patrice says she’s always looking for locations to place donation boxes and businesses to contribute gift baskets for auction.
Stories of Impact
Several stories reinforce the impact of seemingly small gestures. One involved a foster youth who nearly missed prom because he lacked dress shoes. Another recounted a personal story about a young man who helped set up prom decorations but was told he couldn’t attend because he didn’t own formalwear. Patrice drove him to a store, helped him get dressed, and got him to the event. Years later, he told her how much that moment meant and how it changed the course of his life.
These examples illustrate the mission behind Voices for Children: meeting urgent needs in the moment so that young people can move forward without being held back by basic barriers.
The conversation ends with Patrice calling on the community to stay involved. Whether through volunteering, donating, attending events, or simply spreading the word, she emphasizes that everyone can play a role. “If you can’t come out, maybe you can print some flyers,” she says. “If you can’t give money, maybe you can give time.”
This conversation underscores the complexity of child welfare issues on the Treasure Coast, but also highlights the potential for everyday people to make a difference. Voices for Children may not solve every problem, but as Patrice puts it, the goal is to show up, give what you can, and be a voice for those who can’t speak up for themselves.
