LUFKIN, Texas – The Guardians of the Children nonprofit has officially opened its Rayburn chapter in Lufkin, extending its motorcycle‑based outreach to children affected by abuse throughout Angelina, Nacogdoches and surrounding counties. The chapter’s launch ceremony, held at a local venue, brought together members from existing chapters, including a delegation from the Flat Rock chapter in Nebraska.
Local partnership strengthens support for vulnerable children
Chapter president, known by the callsign “Menace,” explained that the new chapter will work closely with the Angelina County District Attorney’s Office and other advocacy groups. “We’re stepping in to help children through the court process and raise awareness of child abuse in the community,” Menace said.
Paige Vega, victim assistance coordinator for the district attorney’s office, highlighted the value of a familiar presence for child witnesses. “They provide a familiar face that the child can look at when they’re testifying,” Vega said. She added that Guardians members also build relationships with children outside the courtroom, helping to reduce the fear and isolation that often accompany legal proceedings.
Addressing a growing case backlog
Both Menace and Vega noted the significant backlog of abuse cases in Angelina County, which the district attorney’s office is working to resolve. While the office faces staffing challenges, the Guardians chapter aims to alleviate some of the pressure by offering consistent, compassionate support to children awaiting trial.
Brotherhood of bikers extends to children
Lobo, the organization’s Texas ambassador, described the Guardians’ mission in terms familiar to the biker community. “When people think of bikers, they think of a brotherhood. That’s what we try to give the kids – someone who’s there for them, regardless of what happened,” he said. “All we know is you need help and we’re there to help you be a kid again.”
Members from other chapters traveled to Lufkin for the patch‑in ceremony, symbolizing the new chapter’s acceptance into the broader organization. Scrappy, a member of the Flat Rock chapter, shared how his group supports children by accompanying them to court, attending school events, celebrating birthdays, and organizing outings such as movie trips and fishing excursions. “We bring them into our family and they become almost like our own kids,” he said.
During the visit, Scrappy also brought two stuffed animals, Haven and Littlefoot, to illustrate the group’s activities while protecting the identities of the children they serve.
How to get involved
Menace encouraged residents who wish to help to support local advocacy organizations and to speak with Guardians members at community events. Vega echoed the call, urging volunteers to assist agencies that serve children and families throughout the region.
For those interested in learning more about Guardians of the Children or in starting a new chapter, the organization’s website provides detailed information on the application process, which includes a year‑long mentorship period with an established chapter before seeking approval from the international board.
The new chapter represents a tangible expression of community care, offering both legal‑system support and everyday companionship to children who have endured trauma. As the Guardians of the Children continue to expand their reach, Lufkin residents can look forward to a stronger network of volunteers dedicated to protecting and uplifting the region’s most vulnerable members.
Original reporting: KLTV 7 Tyler (news) — read the source article.
