Bikers Against Child Abuse formed to protect youth

One local Tomah group was recently treated to some information, from bikers with big hearts. Members of the Big Rivers Wisconsin chapter of Bikers Against Child Abuse (B.A.C.A.), most with singular names like Turtle and Torch, made a presentation to the Tomah Rotary Club during their bi-monthly meeting at Tap House Twenty, in Tomah, on August 16^th.

B.A.C.A. is a non-profit, 501-C-3 tax exempt organization that exists to provide aid, comfort, safety and support, for children that have been sexually, physically or emotionally abused. It was formed in 1995 by John Paul “Chief” Lilly, Horace Montoya and Mark “Ogre” Birchette, in Provo, Utah.

John Paul “Chief” Lilly is a licensed clinical social worker/registered play therapist supervisor, and part-time faculty member at Brigham Young University. Montoya was a national ambassador for the group but passed away earlier this year.

Their mission statement cites that they exist to "create a safer environment for abused children."

According to information shared with the Rotary members, "Even with the courts involvement, to protect children from further abuse by the issuance of the protective orders and the removal of perpetrators from neighborhoods, it is physically impossible for law enforcement officials to provide protection for these children, 24 hours a day, indefinitely."

They said that the perpetrators are fully aware of this, and to combat the situation, bikers make a physical presence in the lives of those who have endured the abuse. "Threats made by an abuser are offset by the presence of dedicated, protective bikers that have now become like family," according to the information shared by the B.A.C.A.

The bikers will sit outside the abused childs home, as well as escort them to their court appearances, providing solace, support and protection.

To learn more about B.A.C.A. and the Big River Chapter, visit https://wisconsin.bacaworld.org.

Their 24- hour hotline number is 888-806-5434.