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Child abuse prevention group starting here

Grand Canyon and Tusayan residents are needed to assist with a regional Child Abuse Prevention Council being formed here. The aim of the council, which will operate under the auspices of the Arizona Department of Economic Security, is to bring awareness, education and resources to area parents and children.

"The main purpose of this local council will be to distribute information regarding the prevention of child abuse, as well as to educate parents and children on how to provide healthy family and peer relationships," said Sally Wahler, one of the council's founding members.

She said another goal of the council is to provide "safe houses" for children who may be in an abusive situation, providing them a place to cool off, step back from a situation or chat with an understanding adult.

Also serving on the council so far are School Board President Chuck Wahler, Ina Zeena, PTA Vice-President Laura Harner and School Resource Officer Ronnie Gibson. Teacher Kay Bordwell is chairing the group.

Wahler said residents from Tusayan and members of the Spanish-speaking community are especially needed. People do not have to have children to take part.

"If you are willing to provide support in any manner ­ offering parenting education, child education, clerical work, media work or a safe place for children, please contact us," Wahler said. "Let's make our community a safe place for children."

The council plans to have a presence where parents and children gather to boost its visibility in the community. These include a booth with information and give-aways at Friday's high school Halloween carnival and short educational sessions with parenting tips at PTA family nights.

Council members will also be present at school concerts, art shows and other school gatherings, and they hope to expand their coverage to families using Kaibab Learning Center as well.

Contact either Kay Bordwell at 638-2461, ext. 304, or at kayb@grandcanyonschool.org, or Sally Wahler at 638-2087 or wahler@grand-canyon.az.us.

The council meets next on Wednesday, Nov. 2 at 6:30 p.m. in the school library. All suggestions, ideas and viewpoints are welcomed.


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