Title
Proclamation declaring April as Child Abuse Prevention Month
Body
Summary and Background Information: April marks Child Abuse Prevention Month. Nationally 1 in 7 girls and 1 in 25 boys will be sexually abused before their 18th birthday. Ralston House child advocacy center is a nationally-accredited nonprofit agency that helps children and teens who are suspected of being sexually or physically abused. The nonprofit works with police departments, social services and district attorneys in Adams County to provide forensic interviews, forensic sexual assault medical exams and support services. Comprehensive services at child-friendly Ralston House help child victims and their families begin the healing process after traumatic experiences. To help raise awareness, Ralston house is requesting elected officials throughout the region declare April as Child Abuse Prevention month, which the city has done for three years. They are also encouraging participation in the Pinwheels for Prevention campaign; information is available online at http://www.ralstonhouse.net/pinwheels2015.html
Staff Responsible (Department Head): Michelle Halstead
Staff Member Presenting: City Attorney Gehler
Financial Impact: $0
Funding Source: N/A
Staff Recommendation: Approve proclamation as presented.
Suggested Motion: I move to approve proclamation 15-06, declaring April 2015 as Child Abuse Prevention Month