In 2024, we focused on increasing services and support for kids. With December underway, we’re looking back at the ways that our movement supported children and families in healing from abuse.
Training for Professionals Responding to Abuse
The Alliance hosted 12 training opportunities with over 120 participants across all multidisciplinary team roles. Training topics included cultural competence, equity, and inclusion components, responses to child trafficking, and telemental health models.
MaiXi Ye, training and operations Manager, worked hard to create unique opportunities for professionals. For the first time, the team hosted a session entitled “Building Cultural Competency And Treating Mental Health Among Hmong Americans” by Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist Maria Moua. Though Hmong people are the largest Asian ethnic group in the state, training opportunities to learn about cultural frameworks and working with families are few.
Growing Mental Health Resources for Recovering from Trauma
Access to mental health services can be a challenge for families, especially when a child would benefit from trauma-focused therapy. The Alliance opened the Mental Health Network Cohort to address this gap. The initiative provides access to training and certification in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) to support children’s healing.
In 2024, we welcomed over 20 mental health professionals into the program. After certification, providers must serve at least three children referred by CACs and participate in multidisciplinary team meetings to support the overall child abuse response.
Advocating for Change at the Capitol
Federal cuts are threatening essential support for survivors. Advocates gathered at the Minnesota State Capitol in April to push for increased funding to fill the gap. Thanks to the shared efforts of victims services coalitions, agencies, and advocates, the state budget included a one-time funding of $9.467 million for Crime Victim Services. Representative Kelly Moeller said of the House version of the bill: “The programs that provide these services across the state support, annually, more than 68,000 victims,” said Moller, chair of the House Public Safety Finance and Policy Committee and sponsor of HF5216. “Crime victim services funding is a top priority this session, in large part because many of these programs have lacked an increase in funding for a while and, on top of that, they’re experiencing cuts from federal dollars.”
To address disparities in foster care, The Minnesota African American Family Preservation Act established advisory councils and units aimed at preventing out-of-home placements for African American children and promoting family reunification.
The Minnesota Legislature also established a Supreme Court Advisory Council on Child Protection and Maltreatment Prevention. The Council’s purpose is to make recommendations for policy and statute changes that will improve outcomes for children and families in the child protection system or at risk of maltreatment. The Alliance’s executive director, Marcia Milliken, was named to the Council and is advocating for the importance of CACs in investigating child abuse and maltreatment reports.
Member Centers Grow Through Leadership
First Witness unveiled its new child advocacy center, a thoughtfully designed haven for families. This state-of-the-art facility features forensic interview rooms, family spaces, an advocacy resource center, and more, ensuring comprehensive support for those in need.
In leadership news, CornerHouse welcomed Christy Shannon as its new CEO. With extensive experience in victim services and the nonprofit sector, Christy aims to enhance services for children and vulnerable adults who have experienced abuse. North Star Family Advocacy Center named Cassie Dibeler its new executive director. Cassie has an impressive background in criminal justice and mental health. She is eager to expand the organization’s initiatives and strengthen prevention efforts.
Child’s Place received the Greater Good Visionary Award at the 27th Annual Chamber Gala in Redwood Falls. Their commitment to connecting children and caregivers with essential resources and advocacy exemplifies their invaluable role in the community.
Body Safety and Prevention Education Efforts
Educating children about body safety is crucial for protecting children from abuse and maltreatment. In Minnesota, Erin’s Law encourages child sexual abuse (CSA) prevention education but lacks specific guidance on quality curricula. The Alliance reviewed existing elementary school programs and identified key criteria for high-quality body safety education. While not standalone solutions, research shows these programs can positively impact children’s understanding of body autonomy and safety.
Throughout April, the Alliance and our members promoted Child Abuse Awareness Month. Weekly themes equipped the public with information on how to report child abuse and find local CACs. With one in ten children likely to experience sexual abuse before age 18, the Alliance emphasizes raising awareness to ensure that survivors receive the necessary support to heal and thrive.
Join Us in 2025!
Even with so many important wins in 2024, our collective work in helping kids heal from abuse continues. Please join us as we get ready for what lies ahead in 2025! You can support the Alliance by attending upcoming trainings, spreading the word on Facebook and Instagram, or making a year-end contribution!