Olmsted County recognizing Child Abuse Prevention Month
Every April, Olmsted County observes National Child Abuse Prevention Month, emphasizing the collective responsibility to prevent child abuse in our community. Olmsted County Child and Family Services employees are committed to providing services and support to ensure a safe and loving environment for children to grow up in.
Please watch this video that highlights Child Abuse Prevention Month and the work of our employees.
As part of the commitment, Olmsted County proudly collaborates with Voices for Children – Child Abuse Prevention Council of Olmsted County. Voices for Children is a multidisciplinary committee whose goal is to spread awareness and education about child abuse prevention in our community.
Integral members of the Voices for Children – Child Abuse Prevention Council of Olmsted County include:
- Family Service Rochester
- Families First of Minnesota
- Mayo Clinic
- Olmsted County Public Health
- Olmsted Medical Center
- Zumbro Valley Health Center
"Olmsted County is proud to be part of Voices for Children – Child Abuse Prevention Council of Olmsted County," said Olmsted County Director of Child and Family Services Amy Rauchwarter. “Voices for Children embodies our collective determination to raise awareness and educate our community about the prevention of child abuse."
Throughout April, Voices for Children will spearhead a series of online presentations aimed at raising awareness, providing education, and mobilizing our community to take proactive steps in preventing child abuse. Community members and professionals are encouraged to register ahead of time to attend the presentations. Scheduled presentations include:
- April 1, 2024: Noon to 1 p.m. - Victim Services and Consent with Sarah Palmer
- April 8, 2024: Noon to 1 p.m. - Building Safety with “40 Developmental Assets” Framework with Monica Way, LICSW + Matt McKay, LICSW
- April 15, 2024: Noon to 1 p.m. - Neglect and Psychological Maltreatment with Dr. Katie Johnson
- April 22, 2024: Noon to 1 p.m. - Whole Brain Child with Melissa Quam, MA, LMFT
- April 29, 2024: Noon to 1 p.m. - Teaming Up to Prevent Bullying with Angie Ellsworth, MS, LSW, LSC, + Anna Schmidt, MS
Help is available
If you suspect a child is being abused or neglected and is in immediate danger, call 911. If the child is not in immediate danger, please call Olmsted County Protection Intake at 507-328-6130, or if after normal business hours, call 507-535-5625.
Learn more about child abuse prevention programs at Olmsted County.