Space Still Available For Friday’s Abuse Prevention Programs
Did you know a quick internet search on local media sites using the keywords “Child Molestation” will reveal that our local community has had 11 different adults arrested, charged, convicted and/or pleaded guilty to child molestation in the last 24 months? This means at least 11 children are now beginning the challenge of healing from the trauma experienced by sexual abuse victims. These children, and so many others like them, need adults who know how to intervene and help them.
April is Sexual Assault Awareness and Child Abuse Prevention Month. The Beaman Home will be hosting special events on April 17 to educate local professionals and raise awareness of The Beaman Home’s Emergency Shelter and Outreach Center programs and services benefiting this community. There is still space available to attend these programs.
Mary Ellen Mann, MS., LCSW will facilitate Darkness2Light’s “Stewards of Children” workshops on Friday, April 17. She will present two training sessions at the Westminster Hall on the Grace College Campus in Winona Lake, 8:30-10:30 a.m. and 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. There is a minimal cost of $25 for the training. This training qualified for two CEUs through the National Board of Certified Counselors and the National Association of Social Workers. Each participant will receive a Stewards of Children certificate. Social workers, counselors, school, church and medical employees as well as any individuals working with children are encouraged to attend. Reservations can be made by phoning (574) 372-3503 or by emailing [email protected].
Mann is a certified Licensed Clinical Social Worker who’s made it her life’s mission is to empower people to overcome and prevent child sexual abuse. Programs with which she is involved raise awareness of the prevalence and consequences of child sexual abuse by educating adults about steps they can take to prevent, recognize and react responsibly to the reality of child sexual abuse.
In addition, Mann will be featured speaker at Beaman Home’s Guardian Angel fundraising luncheon also at Westminster from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. April 17. Her keynote address “Thank you, Key Droppers” will expand on the topics discussed in the Stewards of Children Training. She will also share personal experiences and introduce LastBattle.org, an online community aimed at elevating awareness of sexual violation through their blog, gallery and activities on Pinterest and Facebook. It provides resources to survivors of sexual violation and gives guidance and encouragement to those who know the devastation that unfolds personally or professionally. It’s a compelling story.
Rebecca Kubacki is the luncheon’s master of ceremonies. In addition to introducing Mann, Kubacki will share her own story about domestic violence she experienced as a child. Beaman Home Executive Director Tracie Hodson will provide an update on Beaman Home’s programs and services. Luncheon fee is $35 and reservations may be made by phoning (574) 372-3503 or by emailing [email protected].
For more information about the Beaman Home’s programs and services or the campaign nearing completion to build a new Emergency Shelter and Outreach Center on North Parker Street in Warsaw, contact Hodson or check out the organization’s new website at www.thebeamanhome.com.