Bloomington, IN – In recent weeks, allegations and discussions of child sexual abuse have filled the headlines. It is easy to feel powerless and overwhelmed. It is harder to turn our anger and frustration into positive action for child victims.
On December 13-15, 2011, Susie’s Place Child Advocacy Center, in partnership with The National District Attorney’s Association – National Center for Prosecution of Child Abuse, National Child Protection Training Center, Midwest Regional Children’s Advocacy Center, and Indiana Chapter of National Children’s Alliance will host a free three day training at the Bloomington Monroe County Convention Center for over 150 professionals responsible for the investigation, prosecution, and treatment of alleged child victims of crime.
“To be chosen by the National District Attorney’s Association (NDAA) and Midwest Regional Children’s Advocacy Center to host a training of this magnitude and quality speaks volumes about the good work being done in Monroe County to strengthen the community’s ability to protect it’s children,” says Emily Perry, Executive Director of Susie’s Place ChildAdvocacy Center.
With a mission of providing a neutral, child-friendly center for the investigation of alleged child abuse and neglect, while maintaining the comfort and safety of the child as its first priority, Susie’s Place Child Advocacy Center opened its doors in Bloomington in March, 2011. Since that time Susie’s Place has conducted over 170 child forensic interviews.
Perry goes on to say “This is an incredible opportunity for local law enforcement, child protective services, prosecutors, and treatment providers to receive advanced level training that will directly improve the quality of services and outcomes for children in Monroe County.”
“Having the National District Attorney’s Association (NDAA) select Bloomington is a real honor and a tremendous opportunity for us locally,” said Monroe County Prosecuting AttorneyChris Gaal. “These are simply the best trainings available anywhere.”
“The success of creating a child advocacy center brings with it new challenges,” adds Gaal, “and our community will benefit from nationally recognized experts as we continue to develop best practices for coordinating local resources and working as a team.”
Susie’s Place is a 501(C)(3) organization and relies on the support of individuals and businesses in the community to fulfill its mission. To learn more about Susie’s Place or how to recognize or report child abuse, visit www.susiesplace.org or call 812-822-1570.