The Steven Stayner
 & Missing Children's Memorial

Steven's Story

In 1972, 7 year old Steven Stayner was kidnapped on his way home from school.  For seven years he was held captive by a man who routinely abused him.  In 1980, the same man kidnapped another child, 5 year old Timothy White.  Steven, then nearly 15, bravely managed to escape with Timothy to a local police station, from which both boys were returned home.

Steven devoted much of his time upon returning home to telling his story, teaching parents, children and a whole nation how to protect themselves from what had happened to him.  His story is told in the movie "I Know My First Name Is Steven".

In 1989, Steven was killed in a motorcycle accident, leaving behind a wife and two young children.

The Memorial

Steven's hometown of Merced, California has granted permission for a memorial to be built honoring Steven for his courage in rescuing Timothy.  This memorial will stand as a beacon of hope to families and friends of other missing children that their loved one may someday return.  It will also recognize other victims of stranger abductions, and will serve as a permanent reminder of our inherent duty to protect our children. 

While an artist has not yet been selected for the memorial, the picture on our home page is a representation of our vision for the project.

 In order to accomplish our goals, we need your help.