Omaha, Neb. – Bikers Against Child Abuse (BACA), an international nonprofit dedicated to helping children and families affected by abuse, held a community‑focused chili cook‑off fundraiser on Sunday. The event was coordinated by Samantha Wells, known on the road as “Pita,” who first joined BACA at age 12 after a relative abused her.
Survivor‑led leadership fuels the mission
Now 21, Wells, her father and step‑mother are active members of the organization. “They were able to bring that love and that light back into our lives after something as scary as that would happen,” Wells said, reflecting on the support she received.
As BACA’s event coordinator, Wells organized the fundraiser, inviting local riders, families and businesses to share a pot of chili while learning about the nonprofit’s services. The gathering raised funds that will be used to provide teddy bears, courtroom accompaniment and therapy payments for children navigating the legal system after abuse.
Impact beyond the fundraiser
“You can see the baggage come off their shoulders. When they come in they’re just the shell of the kid and giving them that life there is, there is nothing I can truly give back to BACA for what they have given to me,” Wells explained. The organization’s hands‑on approach—being present in courtrooms, covering therapy costs and offering comfort items—helps survivors feel supported throughout the healing process.
Local law enforcement and child‑advocacy groups praised the event, noting that community‑based initiatives like BACA’s play a vital role in protecting vulnerable children. “When the community rallies around our youngest members, we reinforce the values of family, faith and personal liberty that make Nebraska strong,” said a Sarpy County child advocate who introduced Wells to BACA.
How to get involved
BACA welcomes volunteers, donors and motorcycle clubs willing to contribute time or resources. Future events include additional fundraisers, educational workshops for parents and partnerships with local schools to raise awareness about abuse prevention.
For more information or to donate, visit the BACA website or contact the Omaha chapter directly.
Original reporting: KMTV 3 News Now (Scripps) – local — read the source article.
