Child Advocacy Center News

The Child Advocacy Center (CAC) of Putnam County to Hold One Too Many NY 5K Virtual Run/Walk

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Brewster- July 6, 2020- Even though things are very different throughout New York state, one thing has stayed the same—the CAC of Putnam County has remained open, providing essential services for abused children and their families.  During COVID-19 multidisciplinary teams have been working, following CDC guidelines to safely provide support, services, and a path to healing for children.

Unfortunately, many of the events that help bring awareness to these critical services have been cancelled or rescheduled until 2021.  The vital work of the CAC of Putnam County needs to continue.  Abuse does not take a break during a pandemic: more often the risk rises.

One child abused is one too many, but you can make a difference.  Here is an opportunity for you to support the CAC of Putnam County. Simply select a day from Thursday, September 17th through Sunday, September 20th 2020 to participate in the One Too Many NY 5K Virtual Race/Walk. Register today at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/one-too-many-ny-5k-virtual-race-tickets-109842178914 and select the CAC of Putnam County!   Then pick a day, pick a time, pick a route—it can be your neighborhood, your favorite park, or even your treadmill and run, skip, walk or dance.  This a great way to stay apart, practice social distancing, and still come together in support of the children in our community.  All those who register by August 22nd will be entered to win a dinner for two at the Iron & Wine Restaurant in Patterson, NY! 

Your $35 entry fee entitles you to receive an event t-shirt, a run/walk bib, a chance to win a Dinner for Two at Iron & Wine, and some other prizes.

This virtual event does not have any geographical limits, so encourage family and friends far and near to sign up, select the CAC of Putnam County, and participate.

 

One in ten children will be abused before their 18th birthday.  But your support can turn this disturbing fact into a brighter future for all children.  Join this effort to support the CAC of Putnam County and run to end child abuse.

More information can be found at www.putnamcac.org

#OneTooManyNY5K

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Public Presentation: Sex Offenders: What Every Parent Needs to Know!

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1 out of 10 children will be sexually abused before they turn 18! Chances are, someone you know has been impacted. As alarming as these statistics are, childhood sexual abuse can be prevented. Please join us on the evening of Thursday, September 26, 2019 at Henry H. Wells Middle School for an empowering presentation with renowned speaker, Cory Jewell Jensen.  Ms. Jensen will share her expertise on how to help prevent, recognize and react responsibly to child sexual abuse. Adult education is key to preventing child sexual abuse!

Putnam County Courthouse Goes Blue for Child Abuse Prevention Month

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Brewster, NY – March 22, 2019 – In recognition of April as Child Abuse Prevention Month the Putnam County Courthouse will be lit with blue light, one of several initiatives designed to raise awareness that child abuse is preventable, said County Executive MaryEllen Odell.

“All kids deserves a great childhood that’s carefree and full of promise,” said Odell.  “Putnam County values its children and when people see the light we hope it will remind them that together as a community we can stop child abuse.”

In addition to the courthouse, the Child Advocacy Center and Prevent Child Abuse New York’s “Pinwheels for Prevention” campaign are also using pinwheels to raise awareness. “Pinwheels are meant to convey that every child deserves the chance to be raised in a healthy, safe and nurturing environment,” said CAC Program Coordinator Marla Behler.

The pinwheel garden is located in front of the Sibyl Ludington Statue at Lake Gleneida on Route 6 in Carmel, across from St. James Church.

On April 3rd, Foster Parents Dale and Dolores Bettcher, who opened their home to more than 60 children, will be recognized at the third annual Champions for Children Breakfast sponsored by the Friends of Putnam CAC, Inc. and the Child Advocacy Center of Putnam County.

The breakfast gathering at the Putnam National Golf Club in Mahopac Falls will feature as its guest speaker Mark Yarbrough, whose story of burnout became the basis for his presentation, “Give ‘em the F.I.N.G.E.R!” He addresses the struggle of burnout offering powerful, practical and hilarious insights to help people understand and re-engage in their lives. The breakfast takes place from 8-10 am. Admission is $25, $30 at the door. Tickets and additional information are available at www.friendsofputnamcac.org/CHAMPIONS-FOR-CHILDREN  or by calling 808-1400.

“The CAC has long advocated that education is imperative to preventing child abuse and continues to partner with local agencies to implement innovative programs to ensure the physical, mental, and emotional health and wellbeing of the children of Putnam County,” said Behler. “As more awareness and education programs become available, it is clear that people understand the importance of early and comprehensive prevention of abuse, not just responding to it after it occurs.”

Among the tips provided by Prevent Child Abuse New York are acknowledging that parenting is a tough job. Reassure a parent coping with a difficult situation in public. Help amuse a restless child. For your own kids, be patient and really listen when they speak to you, and make it a priority to spend time with them, undistracted by work and the other demands on your time.

For more information on child abuse prevention programs call the Child Advocacy Center of Putnam County at (845) 808-1400.

The Child Advocacy Center of Putnam County Welcomes Guest Speaker Mark Yarbrough at 3rd Annual Champions for Children Breakfast

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The Child Advocacy Center of Putnam County Welcomes Guest Speaker Mark Yarbrough at 3rd Annual Champions for Children Breakfast

Brewster, NY—March 8, 2019– In recognition of April as Child Abuse Prevention Month, the Child Advocacy Center of Putnam County and the Friends of Putnam CAC, Inc. are proud to present the 3rd annual Champions for Children Breakfast on Wednesday, April 3, 2019, from 8-10 a.m. at the Putnam County Golf Course located at 187 Hill St. in Mahopac.

Speaker, author, and former District Attorney Mark Yarbrough’s personal story of burnout became the basis for his motivational presentation and book “Give ‘em the F.I.N.G.E.R.!” He addresses the struggle of burnout offering powerful, practical, and hilarious insights to help people understand and re-engage in their lives.  Mark’s enthusiasm is infectious, his story is powerful, and his dynamic presentation and real-world tools are a must for anyone in a helping profession.

This year’s Champion for Children honorees are Putnam County foster parents Dale and Dolores Bettcher who, since 1987, have opened their hearts and home to more than 60 foster children. “Dale and Dolores Bettcher served the children of Putnam County with sensitivity, compassion and professionalism for more than 30 years,” said County Executive MaryEllen Odell. “Their work set the standard for excellence in this county.”

“They are an example of the tremendous impact that foster families can have on the lives of many children,” added Child Advocacy Center Program Coordinator Marla Behler. “Their efforts on behalf of our most vulnerable population are an inspiration to us all.”

“Child abuse is preventable,” said Chris York, president of the Friends of the Putnam CAC, Inc, an independent non-profit whose mission is to support and promote The Child Advocacy Center of Putnam County. “Each day people make choices that will change the outcome of not only their lives, but the lives of others. Working together as a community we can do much to protect kids and give them the happy safe childhoods they deserve.”

Tickets can be ordered online at www.friendsofputnamcac.org/champions-for-children/ for $25.00 or purchased for $30.00 at the door.

The Child Advocacy Center is a program of the Putnam County Department of Social Services and provides an immediate coordinated response to child abuse allegations while supporting child victims and their families. For more information on how you can help prevent child abuse, or on prevention and education programs offered by the Child Advocacy Center, please contact marybeth.ross@putnamcountyny.gov or call (845) 808-1400.

Children’s Expo & Public Safety Day to be held Saturday, September 22nd, 2018

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County Executive MaryEllen Odell is once again pleased to invite Putnam County residents to the Children’s Expo & Public Safety Day, on Saturday, September 22nd, from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the TOPS (Training and Operations) building on the Donald B. Smith Campus, 112 Old Route 6 in Carmel. Admission is free.

“Putnam County is a great place to live,” said Odell. “Our county is frequently cited as one of the best counties in the state to raise children and that’s because we are committed to keeping Putnam safe through the efforts of police, local government, social service agencies, private partnerships and extraordinary volunteer fire departments and service groups.”

The Children’s Expo is co-presented by the Child Advocacy Center (CAC) and the Bureau of Emergency Services of Putnam County. “This event is about community and provides an opportunity to meet and celebrate all the people and organizations who give so much of their time to serve children and families,” said Ken Clair, acting commissioner of the Bureau of Emergency Services. “We’re looking forward to showing residents the latest in Fire Prevention and Safety Services.”

“It’s an easy way to educate families on health and safety issues, as well as the support services available to them in the community,” added Marla Behler, program coordinator of the CAC. “All while having fun.”

The Putnam County Sheriff’s Office will once again be offering Operation SAFE CHILD. Operation SAFE CHILD cards contain a child’s name, biographical information (date of birth, gender, height, weight, hair color, eye color, etc.), and a fingerprint image of both index fingers.

In addition, exhibitors will offer information on a wide range of programs, services and activities for children and families in addition to games, a giant bouncy house, face painting, raffles, food and lots of free giveaways! Also back this year is the Home Depot’s free Kids Workshops which offers fun and useful building projects. The workshops teach children do-it-yourself skills and tool safety while they help to instill a sense of accomplishment.

For more information on sponsorship opportunities contact marybeth.ross@putnamcountyny.gov or call (845)808-1400.

Safety Fair Saturday September 22 2018

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  • 11:30 United Martial Arts Centers Front of TOPS
  • 12:00 Songs by Cinderella Front of TOPS Storytime with Cinderella Auditorium
  • 12:00 Balloons by Jocko Front of TOPS
  • 1:00 Magic by Jocko Auditorium
  • 2:00 Seven Stars School of Performing Arts Front of TOPS
  • 2:15 Jan Berlin’s Everything Animals Auditorium
  • 2:45 Songs by Cinderella Front of TOPS

The Child Advocacy Center of Putnam County to “Plant” Pinwheel Garden on March 31st

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February 14, 2018 Brewster, NY – Every kid deserves a great childhood that’s carefree and full of promise. The Child Advocacy Center of Putnam County and Prevent Child Abuse New York’s “Pinwheels for Prevention” campaign are once again using pinwheels to plant that message in Putnam County.

“April is Child Abuse Prevention Month. Pinwheels are a happy and uplifting token of childhood.  They are meant to convey that every child deserves the chance to be raised in a healthy, safe and nurturing environment,” said CAC Program Coordinator Marla Behler.  “Putnam County is a great place to raise a family.  Everyone is welcome to join us as we plant pinwheels to show that our community supports children.”

This year the Community Garden will be planted in front of the Sybil Ludington Statue at Lake Gleneida on Route 6 starting at 9:30 a.m.

The CAC is a program of the Department of Social Services. “The CAC has long advocated that education is imperative to preventing child abuse and continues to partner with local agencies to implement programs to ensure the physical, mental, and emotional health and wellbeing of the children of Putnam County,” said Putnam County Commissioner of Social Services Michael Piazza. “As more prevention education programs become available, it is clear that people understand the importance of early and comprehensive prevention of abuse, not just responding to it after it occurs.”

According to Prevent Child Abuse America, research documents pervasive and long-lasting effects of child abuse and neglect on children, their families and society as a whole.  Effective child abuse prevention programs ensure the health of children and families, allowing children to grow into adults who prosper and contribute to society.

The “Pinwheels for Prevention” campaign is based on the belief that communities must be more proactive to prevent abuse. It’s not enough to simply respond to cases of abuse through prosecution and intervention—programs and policies that focus on child development, engage communities and create conditions that give parents the supports they need to succeed are essential

Among the tips provided by Prevent Child Abuse New York is acknowledging that parenting is a tough job. Here are some other ways to support parents: Reassure a parent coping with a difficult situation in public; Help amuse a restless child; Be a good neighbor and get to know the families in your neighborhood and point out the special things they do for their children. For your own kids, be patient and really listen when they speak to you, and make it a priority to spend time with them, undistracted by work and other demands on your time.

For more information on how you can help prevent child abuse, or on prevention and education programs offered by the Child Advocacy Center, please call (845) 808-1400 or Prevent Child Abuse New York at 1-800-CHILDREN.

The Child Advocacy Center of Putnam County Welcomes Guest Speaker Derek Clark at Champions for Children Breakfast

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February 26, 2018, Brewster, NY   In recognition of April as Child Abuse Prevention Month, the Child Advocacy Center of Putnam County is proud to present the second annual Champions for Children Breakfast on Wednesday, April 11, 2018, from 8-10 a.m. at the Putnam County Golf Course located at 187 Hill St. in Mahopac.

Motivational speaker and “Rapping Dad” Derek Clark endured brutal abuse and spent 13 years in the foster care system.  His inspirational story is a journey from grief and abandonment to hope, healing and the power of perseverance.  A nationally acclaimed author and speaker, Derek has appeared on CNN Headline News, The Ricki Lake show, and the Steve Harvey show. http://www.iwillnevergiveup.com/

This year’s Champion for Children honoree is Michael J. Piazza, Jr., Commissioner of Mental Health, Social Services and Youth Bureau.  Mike is deeply committed to serving the people of Putnam County with sensitivity, compassion and professionalism, and has worked tirelessly to aid many of its most vulnerable populations

 

“Child abuse is preventable. Each day people make choices that will change the outcome of not only their lives, but the lives of others,” said Marla Behler, program coordinator of the Child Advocacy Center. “For change to happen we must all make choices regarding our everyday actions as part of our community. For more than 30 years Mike has set the standard for excellence in this county and been an example of the impact one person can have on the lives of many children.”

 

Tickets can be ordered online at www.friendsofputnamcac.org/champions-for-children/ for $25.00 or purchased for $30.00 at the door.

The Putnam County Department of Social Services is the lead agency in Putnam County dedicated to protecting children. Along with Child Protective Services and Child Welfare Services, the Child Advocacy Center is deeply committed to serving children with professionalism, sensitivity, and compassion.

The Child Advocacy Center is a program of the Putnam County Department of Social Services and provides an immediate coordinated response to child abuse allegations while supporting child victims and their families. For more information on how you can help prevent child abuse, or on prevention and education programs offered by the Child Advocacy Center, please contact marybeth.ross@putnamcountyny.gov or call (845) 808-1400.

Children’s Expo & Public Safety Day to be held Saturday, September 16th

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For more information on sponsorship opportunities contact MaryBeth Ross@putnamcountyny.gov or call       (845)808-1400.

Event Schedule

  • 11:30 United Martial Arts Centers Front of TOPS
  • 12:00 Songs by Belle Front of TOPS
  • 12:00 Balloons by Jocko Front of TOPS
  • 12:15 Jan Berlin’s Everything Animals Auditorium
  • 12:45 Seven Stars School of Performing Arts Front of TOPS
  • 1:00 Magic by Jocko Auditorium
  • 1:45 Songs by Belle Front of TOPS
  • 2:00 Belle’s Story Time and Sing-Along Auditorium
  • 2:30 Save the Children Prep Rally Auditorium

Volunteers come together to make Pinwheel Pots for Child Abuse Prevention

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At Brewster  Fire House, volunteers of all ages came together for the second time in two months to make pinwheel pots and bud vases to help the Child Advocacy Center of Putnam County (CAC) raise awareness that April is National Child Abuse Prevention Month.

Working with the Friends of the Putnam CAC, Inc., 31volunteers, from ages 5–70 gathered to hand assemble the pinwheel pots and bud vases that will be sold to businesses and organizations across the county.

“Pinwheels are happy and uplifting tokens of childhood,” said CAC Program Coordinator Marla Behler. “They represent the safe, nurturing childhood that all kids deserve.” Each Pinwheel pot features blue and silver pinwheels, as well as a message from the volunteer who created it. “The number of people willing to donate their time to volunteer has been tremendous,” said Jenny Hinsman of the Friends of the Putnam CAC, Inc. “They embody the sense of community here in Putnam County and that everyone can help raise awareness about child abuse and have fun while helping others.”

In addition to the Brewster Fire Department, organizations who have partnered with the CAC include the Girl Scouts; the Putnam County Branch of the New York Riders; the Putnam County Youth Bureau’s Kids-N-Teens Mentoring Program with Putnam Valley High/Middle School, Mahopac High School/Fulmar Road Elementary, Carmel High School/ George Fischer Middle School and Haldane High School/Middle School. Families, individuals and teens have also volunteered.

This is the second year in a row that the CAC is partnering with the New York Chapter of Pinwheels for Prevention, part of a national campaign developed by Prevent Child Abuse America. The message, said Yeny McIntyre-Nalbone, victim advocate at the CAC and the creative force behind the pinwheels, is simple. “Child abuse is preventable,” said McIntyre-Nalbone. “Every act counts and everyone can make a difference in the life of a child.”

In addition to the Pinwheel pots and bud vases, three community gardens of pinwheels will be “planted” at the statue of Sybil Ludington in Carmel; Tilly Foster Farm in Brewster; and St. Mary’s Church in Cold Spring.

“Pinwheels are a fun way to show your support for the children of Putnam County,” said Behler. “In April there will be thousands of pinwheels across the county, and everywhere you see a pinwheel there’s a business, an organization or a person helping to stop child abuse before it starts.”

For more information on ordering a pinwheel pot or on child abuse prevention programs please call the Child Advocacy Center of Putnam County at (845) 808-1400 or contact marybeth.ross@putnamcountyny.gov.

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