October Newsletter: It Doesn't Need to Be This Way

October Newsletter

It Doesn't Need to Be This Way

By Executive Director Claire Louge

A few months ago, I was sitting in the patient chair at the dentist, waiting for the hygienist to come in. When she arrived, she apologized for the delay and told me she’d get me out of there soon.

“Take your time,” I said, closing my eyes as she reclined the chair. “I have a two-year-old.”

“You don’t know how often I hear things like that from parents,” she laughed.

You know something is challenging when getting your teeth scraped by metal objects feels like a break.

I share this half-jokingly. It’s funny because it’s true. It’s also serious because it’s true...

IMPACT

Hope in Sierra Vista

In September, Prevent Child Abuse Arizona hosted the final of four Hope Horizons Institutes across Arizona, the last one being held Sierra Vista. Tailored to the unique needs of Cochise County, this event provided a platform for healthcare providers, child protection case workers, home visitors, CASAs, behavioral health providers, and community leaders to learn and collaborate on topics related to trauma, neuroscience, substance use, and family support.

A key highlight was Dr. Alana Brunacini’s engaging presentation on prenatal substance exposure . . .

ADVOCACY

Exciting Update for The Protecting Children by Strengthening Families Act

The House of Representatives has voted in favor of HR 9076, and it now moves to the Senate for consideration. This legislation, backed by Prevent Child Abuse America's policy team, aims to strengthen Title IV-B of the Social Security Act by adding specific language focused on prevention. These reforms would unlock critical funding to help keep families together, particularly by preventing separation due to poverty.

Contact your Senators today to express your support for the reauthorization and reform of Title IV-B!

Take Action Here

TODAY IN PREVENTION

Three Precious Miracles, One Major Award

Elisia Manuel, Arizona native and founder of the nonprofit Three Precious Miracles, was acknowledged as a "CNN Hero" on the national news. Elisia is devoted to helping Native American children build connection to their culture, especially in cases where children have been displaced from indigenous traditions because of child welfare involvement.

Read the CNN Article

Elisia smiles from her exhibit booth at the 2024 Child Abuse Prevention Conference.

Course for Leveraging Hope to Strengthen Families

The HOPE and Strengthening Families Frameworks are strengths-based approaches that help children, families, and communities thrive. Together, they promote healthy development and improve outcomes for families. The developers of the two frameworks worked together to develop a free, online course for professionals working with children and families affected by child welfare or justice systems.

As a 501(c)3 organization, Prevent Child Abuse Arizona is eligible to receive bequests. Please contact Molly Peterson at molly@pcaaz.org if you would like to discuss including Prevent Child Abuse Arizona in your legacy.

Prevent Child Abuse Arizona can only accept donations from individuals, businesses, and foundations located in the State of Arizona.

Tax ID #86-0832901

Prevent Child Abuse Arizona is dedicated to strengthening families and protecting children through collaboration, education, and advocacy. The organization provides research-based prevention services, education and training to help promote strong families and safe, healthy children. For more information, visit pcaaz.org.