The need for Daybreak Youth Services in Clark County can be found in something CEO Thomas Russell told The Columbian.
“The staff is handling some of the toughest issues that teenagers can face,” he said. “Experiences have made these kids draw inward. We’re trying to get them out of that space.”
In providing treatment for substance abuse and mental health problems among clients aged 12 to 18, Daybreak often deals with underlying issues created by homelessness or sexual abuse or a variety of other factors. The goal is to help produce adults who are contributing members of society rather than a burden.
Because of the importance of that mission to our community, we hope Daybreak can overcome its current legal problems. Last year, the Clark County Sheriff’s Office launched an investigation into the Brush Prairie facility, and last month it turned over its findings to the county prosecutor’s office. Sheriff’s Sgt. Brent Waddell described a “pretty tangled investigation” and said: “There are a lot of people. Some have way more culpability than others. It will be up to prosecutors whether or not anyone is charged.”
That investigation also triggered an investigation by the state Department of Health.
Among the concerns at the time the investigation was launched were reports of sexual violence among clients, sexual misconduct by a staff member with a client, and one night when a client attempted to hang himself twice within minutes. There also were reports that supervisors instructed staff not to call 911 unless it involved a life-or-death situation, and to contact a supervisor before calling 911.
Those allegations are disturbing when they involve an organization that has the trust of the public, particularly when they involve young clients. And the findings of the investigation could decide the fate of Daybreak Youth Services in Clark County.
For now, the facility remains open, although the investigation has resulted in a decline in the number of referrals to the inpatient/outpatient facility.
Whether or not Daybreak is allowed to continue operating and whether or not it regains the trust of the public, such services are necessary. The National Alliance for Mental Health reports that about 1 in 5 teenagers suffer from mental illness; and according to national statistics, substance abuse among teens is declining but remains a concern. Most teens do not require residential treatment, but the numbers point out the need for effective treatment in local communities.
That is one of the primary benefits of having Daybreak in the area. Before the facility opened in May 2017 following approval from the county council — which was met with opposition from several neighbors — troubled teens in Clark County often were sent as far as Spokane to find comprehensive treatment. Having an effective local facility is important to teens and their families and, therefore, the community.
But that also calls for responsible actions on the part of Daybreak staff. We hope that no criminal charges are warranted in the case, but if laws were broken people must be held accountable. We also hope necessary changes will be made in the wake of the investigation. Daybreak already has a new CEO and is implementing a life enrichment program at its Vancouver facility.
Daybreak has an opportunity to play an important role in the region, but it also carries great responsibility. The safety of clients and community members must be the highest priority.
