News & Events

Michele Booth Cole on capture of FBI fugitive, accused pedophile Eric Toth

“Tourist in Nicaragua recognized ex-Beauvoir teacher on FBI’s ‘Most Wanted’ list” | The Washington Post | April 24, 2013

“FBI fugitive ordered held without bond” | MSN News | April 24, 2013

Confronting Child Abuse, Cherishing Childhood Airs Tonight on WHUT-TV

Confronting Child Abuse, Cherishing Childhood, a one-hour televised community conversation held by Safe Shores, in collaboration with WHUT-TV and Leadership Greater Washington, airs tonight at 8 p.m. and tomorrow at midnight on WHUT.

Please watch as we continue to raise awareness about child abuse and how we as a community can protect children.

Station Listings:

• Comcast Channel 32 in DC, Montgomery County, MD, and Reston, VA Comcast Channel 28 in Frederick County, MD
• Comcast Channel 19 in the City of Baltimore and Baltimore County, MD; Prince George's, MD; and the Virginia counties of Arlington, Calvert, Prince Williams, Loudoun
• Stafford Verizon Channel 470

WHUR Names Safe Shores Office of the Week

Join Us in Cherishing Childhood During National Child Abuse Prevention Month

April is National Child Abuse Prevention Month, a time set aside specifically to remind us that we each can play a role in promoting the wellbeing of children and families in our communities. Child abuse is a complex problem that requires a community response.

We often hear people comments that “somebody ought to do something.” You can be that somebody. Safe Shores invites you to join us this month in cherishing childhood and creating a new normal for children affected by abuse and other violence.

April 11, 2013
8:30 – 9:30 a.m.
Coffee for Kids @ Safe Shores
(RSVP requested — edrucker@safeshores.org or 202-645-4429)
For more information, visit www.safeshores.org)

12:00 – 1:00 p.m.
Coffee for Kids @ Safe Shores
(RSVP requested — edrucker@safeshores.org or 202-645-4429)
For more information, visit www.safeshores.org

April 20, 2013
9:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Tots to Teens Expo
Washington Convention Center
For more information, visit http://www.whur.com/features/tots-to-teens-expo/

April 22, 2013
8:00 p.m.
Televised Community Conversation on WHUT-TV -- "Confronting Child Abuse, Cherishing Childhood"

Station Listings:
Comcast Channel 32 in DC, Montgomery County, MD, and Reston, VA; Comcast Channel 28 in Frederick County, MD; Comcast Channel 19 in the City of Baltimore and Baltimore County, MD, Prince George's, MD; and the Virginia counties of Arlington, Calvert, Prince Williams, Loudoun,and Stafford Verizon Channel 470

April 23, 2013
3:00 – 6:00 p.m.
Stewards of Children Child Abuse Prevention Training @ Safe Shores
(Pre-registration required)
Contact: Darryl Harding, dharding@safeshores.org or 202-645-4437

April 23, 2013
Midnight
Televised Community Conversation on WHUT-TV — "Confronting Child Abuse, Cherishing Childhood"

Station Listings:
Comcast Channel 32 in DC, Montgomery County, MD, and Reston, VA; Comcast Channel 28 in Frederick County, MD; Comcast Channel 19 in the City of Baltimore and Baltimore County, MD, Prince George's, MD; and the Virginia counties of Arlington, Calvert, Prince Williams, Loudoun,and Stafford Verizon Channel 470

April 24, 2013
6:00 – 8:00 p.m.
Touch of Blue Networking Reception @ The W Hotel (Rooftop)
515 15th Street, NW (F Street, between 14th and 15th
(RSVP requested: Touch of Blue 2013)

April 25, 2013
8:30 – 9:30 a.m.
Coffee for Kids @ Safe Shores
(RSVP requested edrucker@safeshores.org or 202-635-4429)
For more information, visit www.safeshores.org

Safe Shores Earns Re-accreditation from National Children's Alliance

National Children's Alliance recognizes Safe Shores—The DC Children's Advocacy Center for its ongoing delivery of high quality and effective services to child abuse victims.

WASHINGTON, DC — Safe Shores—The DC Children's Advocacy Center has been awarded re-accreditation by the National Children's Alliance following an extensive application and site review process. As the accrediting agency for Children's Advocacy Centers (CACs) across the country, National Children's Alliance awards various levels of accreditation and membership to centers responding to the allegations of child abuse in ways that are effective and efficient, and put the needs of child victims of abuse first. Accreditation is the highest level of membership with the National Children's Alliance and denotes excellence in service provision.

Accredited CACs must undergo a rigorous re-accreditation process every five years to ensure that best practices are continually being applied. With accreditation standards being updated in 2010, re-accreditation this year reflects Safe Shores' commitment to provide evidence-based practices.

To be accredited, a CAC must utilize a functioning and effective multidisciplinary team (MDT) approach for working collaboratively in child abuse investigation, prosecution, and treatment.

"Our multidisciplinary team is the foundation of our approach and effectiveness," says Safe Shores Executive Director Michele Booth Cole, J.D.

Cole continues, "Safe Shores is grateful to our fellow MDT members for their efforts throughout the accreditation process. Special acknowledgement goes to the leadership of the Metropolitan Police Department/Youth Division and D.C. Child and Family Services Agency for working closely with us to implement procedures and mine the data that ultimately allowed us to demonstrate we are meeting the service requirements for meeting the needs of DC's child victims and their families."
Each year, Safe Shores helps more than 700 child victims of abuse and their families by leading a public-private partnership that includes the Metropolitan Police Department, DC Child and Family Services Agency, Children's National Medical Center, Office of the Attorney General for the District of Columbia, and U.S. Attorney's Office for the District of Columbia.

The National Children's Alliance awards Accredited Membership based on a CAC's compliance with 10 national standards of accreditation to ensure effective, efficient and consistent delivery of services to child abuse victims. NCA also considers standards regarding a center's cultural competency and diversity, forensic interviews, victim support and advocacy, medical evaluation, therapeutic intervention, and child-focused setting.

The following story is part of our 2012 end-of-year appeal.

“I Can Heal”: Kerra’s story

Each year, Safe Shores provides intervention, hope and healing to child victims of abuse. We are a safe place for child victims to tell their stories and receive the help they need to overcome the trauma caused by abuse. Here’s Kerra’s* story.

Kerra was just nine years old when her aunt and her aunt’s boyfriend raped her. After her aunt told her not to tell anyone, Keera became scared that her abusers would come to her house and do something mean to her mom, so Kerra continued to hide a secret that, in her words, made her feel “confused, scared, bored, shocked, upset, overwhelmed, ashamed, sad, guilty, uncomfortable, disgusted and frightened.”

It wasn’t until her mom became suspicious because of comments made on Facebook that Kerra finally disclosed the abuse. Kerra came to Safe Shores, where a trained forensic interviewer spoke with her about the abuse. She also received new books, clothing and school supplies, and was referred to our Clinical Services Program, where she began receiving free mental health treatment from a therapist on our staff. During weekly visits to therapy, Kerra started to process her trauma by narrating her abuse. Now eleven years old, Kerra understands that the abuse is not her fault and talks about being able to have a wonderful life and living her dreams.

Please support children like Kerra by making a tax-deductible gift to Safe Shores – The DC Children’s Advocacy Center today.

*Note: Name changed to protect the client’s confidentiality.

We Need to Have Well-Informed Conversations About Abuse, Says
Michele Booth Cole

Ending National Child Abuse Prevention Month 2012 on a teaching note, Safe Shores Executive Director Michele Booth Cole spoke with radio show host Kojo Nnamdi in an hour-long conversation about child sexual abuse prevention.

Michele gave tips to parents on how to talk about personal safety with their children and set guidelines for using social media. She stressed the importance of communities establishing safeguards and getting training on prevention practices and policies. Her conversation with Kojo provided an opportunity to educate parents, communities, and institutions that serve children on what they can do to protect children and prevent abuse.

Listen to the interview.

2012 Cherishing Childhood Breakfast Raises More Than $318,000

The Urban Nation H.I.P.-H.O.P. Choir performs at the Cherishing Childhood Breakfast.

On April 3, Safe Shores – The DC Children’s Advocacy Center hosted its first annual Cherishing Childhood Breakfast to raise funds to end child abuse in the District of Columbia. Held at the Mandarin Hotel, the breakfast netted more than $318,000 and kicked off Safe Shores’ observance of National Child Abuse Prevention Month. More than 160 of Safe Shores' friends and supporters attended.

Washington, D.C. has the highest rate of child abuse in America. Nearly 3,000 children will be physically or sexually abused this year estimates the Dept. of Health and Human Services.

Intervention, hope and healing were the themes of the hour-long breakfast emceed by Thomas Cicotello, president of the Safe Shores Board of Directors. “Today’s breakfast is made possible through the generous support of donors. We would like to thank The Mandarin Oriental Hotel for sponsoring the event and Pepco, FedEx, Clark Charitable Foundation, CBRE, CTI Wireless Foundation, USSI & Triton for their leadership gifts. Our profound gratitude also goes out to BRAVO! Events by Design for providing pro bono planning services,” said Cicotello.

Safe Shores' premiered its new signature video featuring moving testimony from a current client and her mother. In addition, the breakfast featured performances by the nationally acclaimed Urban H.I.P.-H.O.P Choir and remarks by Ret. Metropolitan Police Dept. Commander Lillian "Tina" Overton, emeritus Safe Shores board member

As the breakfast culminated, Cheryl Anne Boyce, PhD, vice-president of the Board of Directors, introduced The LifeSavers, Safe Shores' new multi-year giving society. Guests were invited to join the society by pledging to give at least $1,000.00 per year for the next five years.

Donations totaling $152,315 including leadership gifts and pledges recieved prior to and at the breakfast will be collected this year. The remaining amount has been pledged over the next 5 years. The LifeSavers Giving Society gained 30 inaugural members at the breakfast.

Safe Shores would like to thank our friends and supporters, both old and new for making the first annual Cherishing Childhood Breakfast a success!

For more images from the breakfast, please visit Safe Shores' Facebook page.

2012 Cherishing Childhood Breakfast

On Tuesday, April 3, 2012, Safe Shores will hold its first annual Cherishing Childhood Breakfast at the Mandarin Oriental Hotel in Washington, DC. Guests will hear testimonials about Safe Shores, enjoy a live performance by the Urban Nation H.I.P.-H.O.P. Choir of Washington, DC and view the premier of Safe Shores’ signature video. The Breakfast will kick off a series of events planned to commemorate April - National Child Abuse Prevention Month.

Safe Shores' Cherishing Childhood Breakfast is sponsored by the Mandarin Oriental Hotel. Attendance to this fundraising event is by invitation only.

Safeguarding Children Takes a Community, Says Michele Booth Cole in Radio Interview

On Monday, Jan. 9, Safe Shores Executive Director Michele Booth Cole spoke with radio show host Kate Ebner in an hourlong conversation about child sexual abuse prevention. Michele expressed her vision for a safe and happy childhood for all children and emphasized the value of the CAC multidisciplinary team model in bringing hope, healing and intervention to children and families affected by abuse.

Safe Shores' Brightens Holiday for 250 Children

Thanks to the generousity of our donors, Safe Shores was able to fulfill wishlist's for 250 children through our 2011 Holiday Giving Drive.

The 2011 Holiday Giving Drive was our largest to date, providing toys and clothing for 47 percent more children than the previous year's Holiday Giving Drive!

Many families served by Safe Shores do not have the means to purchase holiday gifts for their children. Each year, through the Holiday Giving Drive, we work to make sure that these families are able to share in the joy of the season by making sure their children receive gifts that are selected especially for them.

Safe Shores would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to all who supported the 2011 Holiday Giving drive through donations and volunteering to wrap gifts.

Child Sexual Abuse: Four Steps America Must Take

Safe Shores' executive director Michele Booth Cole's opinion piece, "Child Sexual Abuse: Four Steps America Must Take", was recently published on the Washington Post’s The Root DC Live blog.

In the piece, Cole shatters myths and shares facts about child sexual abuse and offers four critical steps that all adults must take to stem the tide of child sexual abuse so prevalent in the United States.

Read the blog.

Safe Shores Executive Director featured on WHUR's The Daily Drum

On Monday, Nov. 28, Safe Shores' executive director Michele Booth Cole sat down with Harold Fisher, host of WHUR’s “The Daily Drum,” to discuss the prevalence of child sexual abuse and the importance of prevention education in light of the recent child sexual abuse cases at Penn State and Syracuse University.

In the interview, Cole defines child sexual abuse, describes the scope of the issue, and provides basic tips parents can use to protect their children. Cole talks about questions parents should ask before enrolling kids in extracurricular activities to ensure that organizations are doing everything they can to protect children. Cole also emphasizes the importance of having open, honest and regular talks with children so that they know to use their voices if someone is making them uncomfortable. Cole reminds listeners that every adult is responsible for the safety of children.

Listen to the entire interview here.

Safe Shores' Community Learning Forum - Dec. 8, 2011 (Registration Closed)

Thanks to an overwhelming community response, Safe Shores' Dec. 8 Community Learning Forum on how to protect children from sexual abuse is at maximum capacity. We will present another Community Learning Forum in January 2012.  Please check back for date and time.

Safe Shores Presents Community Learning Forum - Dec. 8, 2011

In light of the recent child sexual abuse allegations at Penn State and Syracuse University and the ensuing national dialogue, Safe Shores will offer a free Community Learning Forum.

Safe Shores' Community Learning Forum
6 - 8:30 p.m., Thursday, Dec. 8, 2011

Attendees will leave with an increased awareness of the prevalence, consequences and circumstances of child sexual abuse and new skills to prevent, recognize and react responsibly when abuse is suspected or witnessed.

Dinner will be provided. This event is free, but space is limited. RSVP by Monday, Dec. 5 to team@safeshores.org or 202-645-4436.

Safe Shores' Community Learning Forum is co-sponsored by National Children's Alliance, Children's National Medical Center, Metropolitan Police Department, Child and Family Services Agency, Office of the Attorney General, Ward One Councilmember Jim Graham, and Downtown Cluster of Congregations.

Safe Shores Raises Almost $23,000 on Greater Washington Give to the Max Day, Nov. 9, 2011

From midnight to midnight, Wednesday, Nov. 9, generous community members rallied and donated almost $23,000 for Safe Shores!

The response to Greater Washington Give to the Max Day was absolutely tremendous -- we not only met, but surpassed our original goal of $50 from 100 donors! With matching contributions and a $2,500 Grand Award of 12th place for "Most Dollars Raised," Safe Shores raised almost $23,000 to help children and families affected by abuse, trauma and violence in the District.

Thank you so much to all of our friends, new and of longstanding, for supporting Safe Shores -- whether it was by spreading the word, sharing our page on Facebook, watching our "Faces of Giving" videos, and/or making an online donation. Together, we can (and you did!) make a difference to address and ultimately end child abuse in Washington DC.

November 2011 Volunteer Spotlight - Anne Giannella

In recognition of her commitment to the mission of Safe Shores and her work in service to our clients, Safe Shores’ November 2011 Volunteer Spotlight is on Clinical Services intern, Anne Giannella!

Anne goes above and beyond to assist the Clinical Services program. She is committed to providing the best trauma therapy to Safe Shores' clients. Anne is caring, enthusiastic, prompt, and dedicated to helping children heal.

"The environment here moves child clients to a point of comfort where they can really talk about what’s happened to them. People working together as a team is what helps,” said Anne.

Congratulations Anne!

Give to the Max Day - Nov. 9, 2011

Safe Shores is excited to be a participant in the Greater Washington Give to the Max Day!

Give to the Max is a one-day, online fundraising event planned for Nov. 9, 2011, that will unite local Maryland, Virginia and Washington, DC communities to support local nonprofits. The goal is to get tens of thousands of people to support their favorite nonprofit by raising more than $3 million in donations and grants in just 24 hours!

You can be a part of Give to the Max day by marking your calendar for November 9, and then on that day, make an online donation on Safe Shores' Give to the Max Day page.

Your donation could help Safe Shores win a share of more than $100,000 worth of matching cash awards. To learn more about the Greater Washington Give to the Max Day, visit http://give2max.razoo.com/.

October 2011 Volunteer Spotlight - Kyra Phillips

In recognition of her commitment to the mission of Safe Shores and her work in service to our clients, Safe Shores’ October 2011 Volunteer Spotlight is on Kyra Phillips!

Only weeks after Kyra began volunteering at Safe Shores, Kyra demonstrated immediate comfort in engaging with staff and members of the MDT. Kyra is a consistant help to the Forensic Services Program and assists with the interview process, case reviews and administrative work. Her supportive presence for the interviewers, ability to listen and sense of humor has made her a valuable person to have in the office.

“It is an amazing experience...I am surrounded by amazing people who are passionate about what they do. Safe Shores has helped me to determine my future career goals and every day I come in to volunteer I learn something new,” said Kyra.

Congratulations Kyra!

Delonte West, Tony Lewis, Jr. Tour Safe Shores

On Friday, Sept. 23, NBA point guard Delonte West and community activest Tony Lewis, Jr. visited Safe Shores to tour the facility.

Both were visibly moved by the stories of the many children and families in the District helped by Safe Shores. Clinical Services Director, Dr. Abyssinia Washington spoke about the value of therapy services for children and families affected by abuse.

Safe Shores was selected as a beneficiary of the Delonte West Charity Weekend. Immediately following the tour, Mr. West and Mr. Lewis hosted a clothing drive for children served by Safe Shores at the Kennedy Recreation Center.

Safe Shores Named Beneficiary of Delonte West Celebrity Charity Weekend

NBA point guard Delonte West, a graduate of Eleanor Roosevelt High School in Greenbelt, Maryland, has named Safe Shores – The DC Children’s Advocacy Center a beneficiary of the inaugural Delonte West Charity Weekend, Sept. 21 - 25.

At 4 p.m., Friday, Sept. 23, West will host a media briefing and tour of Safe Shores’ newly renovated facility located in the former Bundy School in Northwest D.C.

From 6 p.m.-9 p.m., Sept. 23, new clothing for children served by Safe Shores will be collected during a drive hosted by DC community activist, Tony Lewis, Jr. and The Fellaz Youth Foundation at the Kennedy Recreation Center at 1401 7th Street Northwest. The clothing drive is open to the public.

Established in 2011, the Delonte West Charity Weekend aims to connect athletes to a community of fans, hospitalized and underserved children and seniors in the Washington metropolitan area with a goal to inspire and influence. The weekend is presented by Illumine Management and Marketing and sponsored in part by Slam Magazine. For more information about the Delonte West Charity Weekend, please visit www.dwest13.com/.

Safe Shores Executive Director Featured in Essence Magazine

Safe Shores Executive Director Michele Booth Cole is featured in the October 2011 issue of Essence magazine in an article entitled "The 10 Principles of Power" about successful women in leadership positions.

In the article, which features Booth Cole's image on the title page, she talks about her work to secure Safe Shores' newly renovated home at the former Bundy School in northwest DC. She discusses some of the obstacles she encountered and how she overcame them to ultimately ensure that Safe Shores acquired a larger, child-focused facility to serve children and families affected by abuse, trauma and violence in the District.  Read the article.

September 2011 Volunteer Spotlight - Morgan Rook

In recognition of her commitment to the mission of Safe Shores and her work in service to our clients,
Safe Shores’ September 2011 Volunteer Spotlight is on Morgan Rook!

Morgan always comes to Safe Shores ready to help in any way possible with our clients, staff or team. She is very eager to learn more about Safe Shores and service to our clients. Morgan does a great job working with children clients and families greeting every family with a pleasant smile and warm attitude. She has shown leadership in her work with Safe Shores transitioning from a volunteer to an intern, and stepping up to learn more about our clients and our work. She goes above and beyond to stay late to work with clients or assist on projects.

"I volunteer at Safe Shores because I get to interact with the children we’re helping. I like that we get to see children grow and change in positive ways over time as they receive services.”

Morgan says that while at Safe Shores, she has learned about "the vast number of children who are affected by abuse and the range of offenders. There’s no one type of offender; could be a family member or a neighbor. I’ve seen that abuse isn’t specific to only one age, gender, socioeconomic status or race.”

Congratulations Morgan!

August 2011 Volunteer Spotlight - Lizzie Sauber

In recognition of her commitment to Safe Shores' mission and her service to our clients, Safe Shores’ August 2011 Volunteer Spotlight is on Lizzie Sauber!

After volunteering for only one month in the Forensic Services program, Lizzie has already distinguished herself as an asset to the program. Lizzie has volunteered to come into the office at unscheduled times to assist staff when needed and has taken the initiative to lead “snapshots” during forensic interview pre-conferences. She supports the Forensic Services Program allowing forensic interviewers to focus on providing best services to the clients during the interview process without having to worry about administrative details.

Please join us in congratulating Lizzie!

Safe Shores Featured in Washington Parent Magazine

Safe Shores is featured in the August "Short Stuff" section of Washington Parent Magazine.

Washington Parent has been serving parents in the Washington Metropolitan area since 1982, providing family enrichment through education and support.

Read the article.

2011 Back to School Drive - July 1 - August 15

Safe Shores is currently collecting new backpacks and school supplies to distribute to children who have been affected by abuse, trauma and violence in the District.

Your donation of an age-appropriate backpack filled with items from our wishlist will help make sure that a child starts the new year off with the supplies they need to be successful students. Click here for a list of acceptable items.

Donated items should be brought to Safe Shores July 1 - Aug. 15, between the hours of 8:30 a.m. - 5 p.m., Monday-Friday.

For more information or to arrange a drop-off time, contact Nicole, Ashley or Jessica at 202-645-3200.

Safe Shores at Nationals Park - Aug. 1, 2011

Join Safe Shores at Nationals Park at 7:05 p.m., Monday, Aug. 1, 2011, when the Nationals take on the Braves. Safe Shores staff will distribute information from the Community Kiosk, located between Section 107 & 108 very near the outfield reserve seats. Giveaways will also be available while supplies last.

Please purchase tickets through the Safe Shores page on the National's Web site. A portion of each ticket price will help us continue to serve children and families affected by abuse, trauma and violence in the District.

Thank you for your support and we look forward to seeing you at Nationals Park!

Mayor Vincent Gray Visits Safe Shores

On Friday, June 10, Mayor Vincent Gray visited Safe Shores – The DC Children’s Advocacy Center to tour the new facility and meet with Multidisciplinary Team agencies.

"We are so pleased that Mayor Gray came to tour Safe Shores’ new home at the former Bundy School," said Cole. “As the leader of our city, Mayor Gray is in a unique position to help us raise awareness about child abuse and what we can do as a community to prevent this crime against our most vulnerable residents. Safe Shores is grateful for its continued partnership with DC Government, and we are excited about future opportunities to partner with Mayor Gray’s administration to advance the safety and health of children."

Multidisciplinary Team agency representatives from the Metropolitan Police Department, DC Child and Family Services, Office of the Attorney General and the United States Attorney's Office were on hand to discuss their roles on the Team.

DC Child and Family Services staff chat with Mayor Gray

Safe Shores Receives George Washington University Human Services Foundation Grant

Safe Shores is proud to be the recipient of a $2,500 grant awarded by the George Washington University Human Services Foundation.

“Safe Shores – The DC Children’s Advocacy Center is delighted to have received this generous grant from George Washington University Human Services Foundation. This award will help us provide the evidence based-Stewards Of Children Child Sexual Abuse Prevention training to more members of the community and increase the number of adults equipped with this vital information to protect children," said Michele Booth Cole, Safe Shores’ Executive Director.

Students in a human services course taught by Adjunct Professor Peter Konwerski awarded grants to local non-profits through the “George Washington University Human Services Foundation” and “Commitment to Service” grant competition.

The class received funds from the Learning by Giving program of the Sunshine Lady Foundation, created by Doris Buffet, sister of billionaire financier Warren Buffet, to invest in organizations and programs dedicated to providing opportunities for the advancement of education, well-being and new life choices for disadvantaged people. The Learning by Giving program supports and promotes the study of philanthropy in colleges and universities nationwide.

"For years, Safe Shores’ staff and clients have benefitted from the dedicated volunteer support of GWU students and this award serves as a continued vote of confidence in our work to provide intervention, hope and healing to children and families affected by abuse, trauma and violence in our Nation’s Capital," said Cole.

The grants were announced at the 2011 Service Learning Symposium held at George Washington University’s Marvin Center on April 26, 2011.

May 2011 Volunteer Spotlight - Shanna Balhis

In recognition of her commitment to Safe Shores' mission and her service to our clients, Safe Shores’ May 2011 Volunteer Spotlight is on Shanna Balhis!

Shanna is a senior at University of Maryland – College Park majoring in Family Science. She goes above and beyond in Safe Shores’ Forensic Services Program. She has a positive attitude and a can-do spirit. Shanna began volunteering at Safe Shores in the fall of 2010 and has consistently shown a willingness to assist in any program or with any team member. She works independently and always goes above and beyond what is expected of her.

"I’m stronger than what I thought I was," said Shanna about what she's learned while at Safe Shores. "The first interview was hard, but I’ve learned from the team how to manage my feelings to do this work.
I knew there was a place like this, but I didn’t know a lot about children’s advocacy centers. I know now that there are people out there who care about kids and come to work every day to help kids.”

Please join us in congratulating Shanna!

Safe Shores Free Community Open House - Thursday, April 28, 2011

To conclude Child Abuse Prevention Month, Safe Shores invites the community to visit our state of the art, child-friendly facility for our first Community Open House. Attendees can tour the Center and learn first-hand how D.C.’s Multidisciplinary Team on Child Abuse Investigation Prosecution and Prevention work together to provide intervention, hope and healing to children and families affected by abuse in the District. Information on child abuse prevention, light refreshments and giveaways will be available.

Community Open House
4:30 p.m.- 6:30 p.m., Thursday, April 28, 2011
at Safe Shores - The DC Children's Advocacy Center
429 O Street, NW
Washington, DC 20001

For more information, contact Jada Irwin at 202-645-4436.

Safe Shores Receives Child Abuse Prevention Month Recognition Resolution

On April 5, 2011, The Council of the District of Columbia presented Safe Shores – The DC Children’s Advocacy Center along with 10 other District organizations with the ceremonial Child Abuse Prevention Month Recognition Resolution of 2011 in recognition of Safe Shores’ ongoing commitment to serving the city’s abused children.

"Safe Shores is honored to accept this resolution on behalf of the city’s child victims of abuse,” said Michele Booth Cole, Executive Director at Safe Shores. “We are pleased to join Councilmember Jim Graham, Human Services Committee members, the entire City Council and other local organizations to commemorate Child Abuse Prevention Month, and we remain steadfast in our commitment to serving our city’s most vulnerable children and their families.”

April is National Child Abuse Prevention Month, as declared by Congress in 1983 and commemorated since its inception to honor and remember children who have suffered abuse, violence and maltreatment, and raise awareness about programs and services available nationwide to help reduce the incidence of child abuse and neglect. Across the nation, local and national organizations will join together through candlelight vigils, tributes, proclamations and other initiatives designed to shine a spotlight on the issue of child abuse and neglect.

Safe Shores Honors Foundations and Local Leaders at Expansion Donor & Supporter Appreciation Breakfast

On Thursday, March 24, Michele Booth Cole, Executive Director of Safe Shores, and Cheryl Ziegler Ragland, Esq., President of the Board of Directors, presented Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton’s office as well as BB Otero, Deputy Mayor for Health and Human Services for Mayor Vincent Gray’s office, Rick Moyers, Vice President of Programs and Communications from the Meyer Foundation, Rose Ann Cleveland, Executive Director of The Morris and Gwendolyn Cafritz Foundation, Pinkie Dent-Mayfield from the Philip Graham Foundation and Michael Ryan from the Washington Children’s Foundation with signature artwork to highlight their support of Safe Shores’ new facility located in northwest Washington, D.C.
Read full release.

l to r Cheryl Ziegler Ragland, Esq., President of the Board of Directors, Michele Booth Cole, Executive Director of Safe Shores, BB Otero, Deputy Mayor for Health and Human Services

l to r Michele Booth Cole, Executive Director of Safe Shores, Cheryl Ziegler Ragland, Esq., President of the Board of Directors, Rose Ann Cleveland, Executive Director of The Morris and Gwendolyn Cafritz Foundation

l to r Michele Booth Cole, Executive Director of Safe Shores, Cheryl Ziegler Ragland, Esq., President of the Board of Directors, Michael Ryan, Washington Children's Foundation

l to r Michele Booth Cole, Executive Director of Safe Shores, Cheryl Ziegler Ragland, Esq., President of the Board of Directors, Pinkie Dent Mayfield, Philip Graham Foundation

April is National Child Abuse Prevention Month

Child Abuse Prevention Month promotes the role that everyone can help play in keeping DC’s children safe. Safe Shores will recognize national Child Abuse Prevention Month in April 2011 by sponsoring various events.

"Caught in the System" presented by DC Campaign to Prevent Teen Pregnancy - 9 a.m.-noon, Wednesday, April 6
Join us for "Caught in the System" featuring keynote speaker Amy Dworsky, Ph.D., Senior Researcher at Chapin Hall at the University of Chicago and panelists from Child and Family Services Agency, The Children's Agenda, Children's Law Center & Safe Shores - The DC Children's Advocacy Center.

In the District of Columbia, 76 percent of children placed in foster care were born to parents who started their families as teens. Families started by teens are extremely fragile and a startling number of children born when their parents were adolescents wind up in the child welfare system.

"Caught in the System" is co-sponsored by Child and Family Services Agency and Safe Shores - The DC Children's Advocacy Center.

Space is limited. Pre-registration is required. Register here.

Safe Shores Hosts Free Community Child Sexual Abuse Prevention Trainings

In recognition of National Child Abuse Prevention Month, Safe Shores, in parnership with DC City Councilmebers, will offer four free community child sexual abuse prevention trainings. Advance registration is required and space is limited. To register for any of the following trainings, e-mail stewardsofchildren@safeshores.org.

5:30-8 p.m., Wednesday, April 6
Safe Shores Training & Learning Center
429 O Street NW
Washington, DC 20001
Co-Sponsored by Ward 2 Councilmember Jack Evans & At-Large Councilmember Phil Mendelson

4-6:30 p.m., Tuesday, April 12
Ward 1 DCPS Parent & Family Resource Center
located inside Tubman Elementary School
3103 13th Street NW
Washington, DC 20010
Co-Sponsored by Ward 1 Councilmember Jim Graham & DCPS Parent & Family Resource Center

9-11:30 a.m., Saturday, April 16
Ward 7 DCPS Parent & Family Resource Center
located inside SHADD Elementary School
5601 E. Capitol Street SE
Washington, DC 20019
Co-Sponsored by Ward 7 Councilmember Yvette Alexander & DCPS Parent & Family Resource Center

5:30-8 p.m., Tuesday, April 19
The 19th Street Baptist Church
4606 16th Street NW
Washington, DC 20011
Co-Sponsored by Ward 4 Councilmember Muriel Bowser

“To Kill A Kelpie” Presented by Stop the Silence

"To Kill A Kelpie", a new and original play by Scottish playwright and actor Matthew McVarish, is about two brothers, who, after living with a secret since their boyhood, divulge the truth to each other. A "Kelpie" is widely known in Celtic folklore as a devious creature lurking in the depths of highland lochs. When two grown brothers reunite, following the death of their uncle, they realize that his gruesome tales of a child-devouring monster were lies created to ensure their silence and cooperation during years of sexual abuse. In this unconventional drama, we meet two men talking to the children they were. Still unsure whether there might be any truth in the Kelpie stories, they face one another like a mirror to open painful boxes of sexual confusion, self doubt, and shame, while endeavoring honestly to end the silence and open their minds enough to consider what it would take "To kill a Kelpie”.

"To Kill A Kelpie", can be seen Saturday-Monday, April 9-11 (4 p.m. 4/9-10 & 7:30 p.m. 4/11) at the DC Arts Center. For tickets, contact Jacob Wilkins at 512-522-6231.

A Touch of Blue II: A Networking Event to Recognize National Child Abuse Prevention Month

Join us for A Touch of Blue II: A Networking Event to Recognize National Child Abuse Awareness Month,
6 p.m.-10 p.m., Wednesday, April 20, 2011, at Co Co. Sala, 929 F St., NW, Washington, DC 20004.

Touch of Blue II is chaired by Cheryl Boyce with hosts Michele Booth Cole, Michael Young, Tom Cicotello, Cheryl Ziegler Ragland and Kristen Howe from Safe Shores. Other community hosts include: Kimberly Bassett (Wireless Foundation), Bonita Parker, J.R. Clark, Kenneth Clarke (Fitness Together,Silver Spring), Rhon Frazier (Oriental Oasis), Andre Galery, Flavius Galiber, Jennifer Hardy, Gerard Kelly, Marc McKayle, and Brandon Todd.

All donations are tax-deductible and 100% of the funds raised will go to support the work of Safe Shores. Please bring your business card for door prizes.

Register at http://touchofblue2011.eventbrite.com/. Minimum suggested donation $20.

See you there wearing "A Touch of Blue"!

Seventh Annual International Race to Stop the Silence

Join us for the seventh annual Race to Stop the Silence on Saturday, April 23. Race to Stop the Silence is an 8K race, 5K fun run, and 1K kids' fun run. The 8K is a flat, fast course through Washington, D.C., starting at Freedom Plaza (Pennsylvania Avenue NW between 13th and 14th streets, Washington, DC 20004). The 5K is similar but shorter.

The Race has great winner awards (overall first, second, and third, and the prizes in age groups -- 15-19, 20-29, 30-39,40-49, 50-59, 60-69, and 70 and over, as well as prizes. All kids in the kids fun run will receive prizes.

Click here to register as a member of Safe Shores' team.

Safe Shores' 2010 Fall Dinner Raises $100,000!

On Sept. 23, 2010, Safe Shores' Board of Directors hosted "Remember When . . . A Fall Dinner” to honor leaders in child welfare and celebrate Safe Shores 15th anniversary at The Madison – A Loews Hotel in Washington, DC. More than 200 of Safe Shores' friends and supporters attended the gala event. The dinner, which was a first for Safe Shores, netted $100,000.

Former U.S. Congressman Robert E. “Bud” Cramer, U.S. Attorney General Eric Holder, former D.C. City Administrator Neil O. Albert and Kimberley A. Shellman-Borna, former executive director of Safe Shores were each honored for their work on behalf of child victims of abuse.

Safe Shores is grateful to the event sponsors for their generous support: The Madison – A Loews Hotel, FedEx, The Carmen Group, The Clark Charitable Foundation, The Congressional Club, Proskauer Rose LLP, Harris SBSB, Walmart, Doggett Enterprises, Choice International Hotels, CB Richard Ellis, RLJ Development, LLC & DC Chartered Health Plan.

Safe Shores thanks its dedicated Board of Directors for their collective efforts in making the event such a tremendous success. Special acknowledgement and kudos go to the event planning committee: Mrs. Sandra L. Merin, Benjamin Ogletree, Esq., Mr. James LoBosco, Mr. Geoffrey Griffis and Mr. Tom Cicotello for working tirelessly to make the evening a resounding success!

Funds raised from the event allow Safe Shores to continue to provide critical direct services to child victims of abuse and witnesses to violence in the District of Columbia.

l to r: Sandra Merin, Safe Shores Board President (2005-10), Attorney General Eric Holder, Michele Booth Cole, Safe Shores Executive Director

Former U.S. Congressman and creator of CAC model Robert E."Bud" Cramer

l to r: Sandra Merin, Safe Shores Board President (2005-10), City Administrator Neil O. Albert, Michele Booth Cole, Safe Shores Executive Director

l to r: Michele Booth Cole, Safe Shores Executive Director, Sandra Merin, Safe Shores Board President (2005-10), Kimberley A. Shellman-Borna, former Safe Shores Executive Director

Safe Shores Board of Directors

Safe Shores staff

Visit the Safe Shores Facebook page to view more images from the Gala.

Save the Date-April 23, 2011-7th Annual Race to Stop the Silence

The 7th annual Race to Stop the Silence to help stop child sexual abuse will be held on April 23, 2011 .

Participants can select either an 8K race, 5K fun run, and 1K kids' fun run. There will be speakers, informational booths, winner awards and prizes.

Read more about the Race to Stop the Silence.

Safe Shores Partners with Fresh Artists - Youth Artists/Philanthropists Contribute Art for New Facility

The walls of Safe Shores-The DC Children's Advocacy Center are now decorated with original works of art made by children thanks to a partnership with Philadelphia based Fresh Artists.

"Ever since discovering the Fresh Artists program, we have been eager to create a partnership with them." said Michele Booth Cole, Safe Shores executive director. "We are so excited about the opportunity to support budding child artists by dressing the walls at our facility with their wonderful pieces. We know the healing power art can have in the lives of children and adults and feel that this collaboration is fitting for our respective missions."
Fresh Artists is an innovative concept of student-centric philanthropy. Children create art, donate images, and meet their financial benefactors in highly visible "corporate spaces of success".

Fresh Artists is a new model of civic engagement where recipients of corporate generosity, the children, are full and equal partners in the common goal: to save access to art making for all children. Fresh Artists creates a unique opportunity for kids at risk to connect with private citizens and corporate leaders by making their art available for the enjoyment and inspiration of the public, while raising substantial funds to support future art-making in their community schools.

Fresh Artists representatives oversaw the mounting and installation of the more than 140 pieces of art at Safe Shores. Visit http://freshartists.org/blog/ to read Fresh Artist's Blog entry about the art installation at Safe Shores.

Safe Shores Named One of Region’s Top Charities in 2010-11 Catalogue for Philanthropy

Safe Shores is pleased to announce our inclusion as a featured charity in the 2010-11 Catalogue for Philanthropy: Greater Washington. A panel of 100 expert reviewers from large and small foundations, corporate giving programs, giving circles, and peer nonprofits evaluated nearly 250 applications; Safe Shores is one of 70 outstanding nonprofits featured this year.

To be included in the Catalogue of Philanthropy is effectively to be awarded the gold seal of approval as a small, non-profit organization," said Michele Booth Cole, Safe Shores executive director. "What makes this recognition especially valuable are the innovative resources that the Catalogue offers to featured charities to help them connect with prospective donors. The Catalogue is a truly effective philanthropic organization that understands the challenges and needs of smaller organizations and strategically gives them a meaningful hand in getting the word out about their efforts to make a difference in the community. We are so glad that the Catalogue exists and grateful that Safe Shores is part of it.”

Now in its eighth year, the Catalogue has become a trusted resource, connecting smaller, community-based organizations with individual and foundation donors. According to Barbara Harman, President and Editor of the Catalogue for Philanthropy: Greater Washington, "charities were selected for excellence, cost-effectiveness, and impact. These are certainly among the best community-based nonprofits in the Greater Washington region.”

Visit the Catalogue for Philanthropy Web site at www.catalogueforphilanthropy-dc.org.

Safe Shores Launches YouTube Channel

Safe Shores is excited to annouce that we recently launched YouTube channel! The Safe Shores channel features informational and event videos.

Subscribe to the Safe Shores YouTube channel at www.youtube.com/user/SafeShoresDC?feature=mhum. Check back periodically for new videos!

Safe Shores 2010 Holiday Assistance Drive

It is that time of year again and we are asking all of our supporters to sponsor a child's wishlist for the Holiday Assistance Drive!

Each year, Safe Shores conducts a drive to help provide holiday gifts to the child victims of abuse and witnesses to violence we serve. Your donation will give a special moment to a child and provide a caregiver with the opportunity to provide holiday gifts for their family.

You can sponsor a child's holiday wishlist by following these 3 easy steps!

Send an e-mail to GiveToAChild@safeshores.org with your name, contact information and the number of children whose wish lists you will fulfill.

Check your inbox in a day or two for the requested number of wish list(s). (Depending on your
e-mail settings, messages may go to your junk e-mail folder.)

Finally, have fun shopping for the new toys and clothes on a child’s wish list!

Please keep in mind that each child’s wish list will cost between $125-$150 to fulfill.

All items must be new, unwrapped and delivered to Safe Shores by Monday, Nov. 29, 2010.

If you prefer to sponsor a wish list at $150 per child and let us do the shopping, please make a note in your e-mail. Checks should be sent to Safe Shores 2010 Holiday Assistance Drive, Attn: Nicole Borrello, 429 O Street, NW, Washington, DC 20001.

For more information, contact Nicole, Jessica or Ashley at 202-645-3200 or via e-mail at GiveToAChild@safeshores.org.

Casey Trees, Deals For Deeds Partner for Community Planting on Safe Shores Grounds

On Saturday, Oct. 23, 2010, more than 40 community volunteers worked to beautify the grounds of Safe Shores. The community planting was made possible through a grant from Casey Trees. Deals for Deeds sponsored the event.

"We are so grateful to Casey Trees and Deals for Deeds for making the community planting possible," said Safe Shores executive Director Michele Booth Cole. "Safe Shores interior is designed to be a warm, friendly and inviting space for the children we serve. The new trees are of course beautiful, but they also give the grounds the tranquil feel that is proven to benefit the child and youth victims of abuse and witnesses to violence that come to Safe Shores."

After a brief welcome from Mark Buscaino, executive director of Casey Trees and Michele Booth Cole, Casey Trees employees demonstrated the proper way to use the tools. Volunteers donned yellow vests and gloves and worked in teams to plant 37 trees on the grounds of Safe Shores. After the planting, volunteers were treated to lunch by Chix and Hello Cupcakes through a partnership with Deals for Deeds. Volunteers received a VIP gift bag.

Check out video from the event at www.youtube.com/user/SafeShoresDC or visit our Facebook page to view photos.

For more information about Casey Trees, please visit www.caseytrees.org/. For more information about Deals for Deeds, please visit www.dealsfordeeds.com/.

Safe Shores Awarded $55,000 Taproot Foundation Service Grant

Safe Shores has been selected by the Taproot Foundation to receive a five-month service grant worth $55,000. Taproot Foundation will provide capacity-building services for Safe Shores. These services will focus on improving Safe Shores’ key messaging and brand strategy.

Taproot Foundation is a nonprofit organization that makes business talent available to organizations working to improve society. The Taproot Foundation makes grants of professional consulting services, called Service Grants, through the Service Grant Program. Every Service Grant is delivered pro bono by a team of 5-6 business professionals who volunteer their time and expertise to help a nonprofit in their community.

“The Taproot Foundation has an excellent reputation and we are proud to count ourselves among the many worthy beneficiaries of Taproot Service Grants,” said Michele Booth Cole, Safe Shores’ executive director. “We are excited to have the opportunity to improve and solidify our communications efforts with the help of the seasoned professionals Taproot provides.”

Safe Shores Recieves $700 from National Children’s Alliance and the Verizon Foundation

Safe Shores was selected by National Children’s Alliance to receive $700 in Target gift cards from the Verizon Foundation. Safe Shores is one of 145 National Children’s Alliance accredited Children’s Advocacy Centers to receive this gift from the Verizon Foundation’s total donation of $100,000 in Target gift cards. Verizon Foundation presented this generous gift to National Children’s Alliance to support the work of accredited Children’s Advocacy Centers around the country.

Safe Shores will use the awarded gift certificates to purchase essential clothing and supplies that will be distributed to child abuse victims via the Safe Shores Clothing Closet.

Safe Shores Fall Dinner - Thursday, Sept. 23, 2010

Safe Shores will present an exciting evening with dinner and live entertainment, 6 p.m., Thursday, Sept. 23, at The Madison Hotel in Washington, DC. Former Congressman Robert E. (Bud) Cramer (AL) will give the keynote address.

In 1985, Robert E. "Bud" Cramer, then a District Attorney, organized an effort to create a better system to help abused children. His vision and commitment to finding a better way to help child and youth victims of abuse lead to the creation of the child advocacy center (CAC) model.

Special honored guests U.S. Attorney General Eric H. Holder, Jr., DC City Administrator Neil O. Albert and Kim Shellman-Borna, former executive director of Safe Shores will be recognized for their support of Safe Shores and commitment to ending child abuse.

Single tickets are currently available for purchase. Click here for more information or to purchase tickets for the Dinner.

Safe Shores 2010 Back to School Drive, July 1 - Aug. 13

You can help some of DC's most vulnerable children get ready for the new school year! We are currently collecting backpacks and school supplies to be distributed to the child and youth victims of abuse and witnesses to violence served by Safe Shores - The DC Children's Advocacy Center.

Your donation of an age-appropriate backpack filled with items from our wishlist will help make sure that a child starts the new year off with the supplies they need to be successful students. Click here for a list of acceptable items.

Donated items should be brought to Safe Shores - The DC Children’s Advocacy Center between the hours of 8:30 a.m. - 5 p.m., Monday-Friday.

For more information or to arrange a drop-off time, contact Nicole Borrello at 202-645-3208 or via e-mail at nborrello@safeshores.org.

Safe Shores' Executive Director Michele Booth Cole interviewed by Francis Elliot of WAMU 88.5

Safe Shores Executive Director Michele Booth Cole was interviewed regarding a local child sexual abuse case. Booth Cole provided expert commentary and gave listeners helpful tips on how to recognize and prevent child sexual abuse. The interview aired during "The Morning Edition" on May 26, 2010. WAMU 88.5 is the leading public radio station for NPR news and information in the greater Washington D.C. area. Listen to the interview here.

PRESS RELEASE: Safe Shores Recognized At Congressional Club Luncheon Honoring First Lady Michelle Obama, April 2010

Safe Shores is honored to be recognized by the Congressional Club for its work with child and youth victims of abuse and witnesses to violence in D.C. For further details on the luncheon, click here to read the full press release.

EVENT, April 2010: Safe Shores Executive Director Moderates Policy Forum Panel on Child Abuse

Safe Shores Executice Director Michele Booth Cole moderated a policy forum on child abuse at the National Press Club today. The "National and Local Perspectives on Preventing Child Abuse and Neglect" panel was well attended and well received, with participants benefiting from federal and local research and advocacy perspectives "at one table."

Key messages/conclusions from the panel were:

- Support for parents is key;

- Moving from cacaphony to symphony...there is need for greater interagency collaboration;

- It is important to remember that child abuse is a complex issue;

- EVERYONE has a role to play in preventing child abuse.

Panelists included Dr. Roque Gerald (Director, D.C. Child and Family Services Agency), James Hmurovich (President/CEO, Prevent Child Abuse America), Jennifer Ehrle Macomber (Senior Research Associate, The Urban Institute), and Catherine Nolan (Director of the Office of Child Abuse and Neglect, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Administration for Children and Families, Children's Bureau).

For further details on the event, click here.

April is Child Abuse Awareness & Prevention Month:

What will YOU do to protect children? This April, Safe Shores is offering a FREE Stewards of Children training on child sexual abuse prevention to the first 100 adult registrants. This revolutionary interactive prevention program was developed by Darkness to Light, a national child sexual abuse prevention organization. Click here for more information about the training curriculum and how to receive your FREE training.

EVENT, April 2010: 4th Annual Penn Quarter on the Block: Cocktail Party and Auction

Safe Shores is honored to be the beneficiary of the 4th Annual Penn Quarter on the Block: Cocktail Party and Auction to be hosted by Weschler's Auctioneers and Appraisers on Thursday, April 22, 2010 from 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.

Please join us for an evening of cocktails, hors d'ouevres, and silent and live auctions at Weschler's Gallery (909 E Street, NW, 2nd Floor, Washington, DC 20004). 100% of the money raised will go directly to Safe Shores' Art, Play & Group Therapy Programs.

Reserve your ticket* today (*$30 in advance, $40 at the door). RSVP before April 20th to 202 628 1281 or rsvp@weschlers.com AND simply mail checks, payable to Safe Shores, to: Weschler's Charity Auction, 909 E Street, NW, Washington, DC 20004. *Pre-advanced ticket packets will be held at Weschler's Will Call table, which will be located on the second floor, on the evening of the event.

Featuring donations from: 701 Restaurant, Alden Shoes, Altman's Parking, Artifactory, Asia Nine Bar & Lounge, Benson Jewelers, Bike & Roll, Cafe Atlantico, The Capital Grille, The Caucus Room, Cedar Restaurant, Cowgirl Creamery, Craig Henson Design, D.C. United, Delectable Cakery, District Chophouse & Brewery, Fado Irish Pub & Restaurant, Fire & Sage Restaurant, Folger Theatre, Friends of Weschler's, Funxion, Gifford's Ice Cream & Candy Co., Gordon Biersch, The Green Turtle, The Hotel Monaco, International Spy Museum, Jaleo, La Tasca Spanish Tapas Bar & Restaurant, Landmark's E Street Cinema, Lia's Madame Tussaud's Wax Museum, Marian E. Koshland Science Museum, National Building Museum, National Museum of Crime & Punishment, National Portrait Gallery, Newseum, The Oceaniare Seafood Room, Oyamel, Penn Camera, Penn Quarter Sports Tavern, Peruvian Connection, Paste Moderne Brasserie, Proof, PS 7's, Red Velvet Cupcakery, Renaissance Hotel, RFD Regional Food & Drink, Ristorante Tosca, Rosa Mexicano, Teaism, TenPenh, Warner Theatre, Washington Bach Consort, Washington International Horse Show, Washington DC Triathalon, The Washington Times, Washington Redskins, Warehouse Theater, Woolly Mammoth Theatre Company, Zaytinya, Zipcar, Zola and many more!

EVENT, April 2010: A Touch of Blue - A Networking Event to benefit Safe Shores

Safe Shores is honored to be the beneficiary of A Touch of Blue: A Networking Event hosted by Safe Shores' Board members Cheryl Boyce and Michael Young to kick off Child Abuse Awareness and Prevention Month this Thursday, April 1, 2010 from 6:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m.

Please join us at Palette Restaurant and Lounge at The Madison (A Loews Hotel at 15th and M Streets, NW). 100% of the money raised will go directly to Safe Shores. Admission is complimentary. Valet parking available. Bring your business card for door prizes from Oriental Oasis Day Spa and Palette Restaurant.

See you there wearing "A Touch of Blue".

IN THE NEWS, March 2010: Safe Shores' New Home Unveiled

It has been in the plans for years, and finally a dream has come to fruition. Safe Shores - The D.C. Children's Advocacy Center has moved to a much-needed, expanded facility. In this 40,000 square foot child-friendly faciity, Safe Shores will be able to expand the length, depth and breadth of services provided to child victims of abuse and witnesses to violence, and fully realize co-location with its multidisciplinary team partners.

The Washington Post covers Mayor Fenty's ribbon cutting unveiling in this Metro Section brief.

IN THE NEWS, March 2010: A Spotlight Can Help End Child Abuse

As noted in Safe Shores Executive Director Michele Booth Cole's Letter to the Editor in The Washington Post, some influential voices are being heard lately regarding child sexual abuse. Unfortunately, much of the talk misses the mark.

Click here to read the full Letter to the Editor as published.

EVENT: Safe Shores Honored by The Washington Club as Community Service Award Recipient , February 2010

Safe Shores - The D.C. Children's Advocacy Center is honored to be selected as the recipient of The Washington Club's annual Community Service Award this year. The award luncheon took place at the beautiful, historical Washington Club on Thursday, February 18, 2010 at 11:30 a.m.

Click here to view the award luncheon invitation.

Click here to view award luncheon photos.

IN THE NEWS, December 2009: Washingtonian of the Year

In its annual coverage of new Washingtonian of the Year recipients, The Washingtonian magazine featured the work of award recipient and Safe Shores' Executive Director Michele Booth Cole.

Click here to view the article.

IN THE NEWS, December 2009: Reforming Child Welfare

The "Reforming Child Welfare" segment produced and aired on The Kojo Nnamdi Show on WAMU highlights an expert discussion on various aspects of child welfare issues between Safe Shores Executive Director Michele Booth Cole and Urban Institute fellow Olivia Golden, including:

- What happens beyond the headlines?

- How have issues in child welfare been captured accurately (or not) in media and pop culture?

- What changes in approaches to child welfare issues have occurred leading to the current state?

Click here to listen to this timely and engaging discussion.

Safe Shores' Holiday Assistance Drive, December 2008

In 2009, Safe Shores helped make the season brighter for over 150 children by matching its child clients and their siblings with individual and corporate donors from the D.C. community.

Safe Shores Launches Drive to Collect 200 New Backpacks and 200 New Duffel Bags, July/August 2009

Of the over 850 children and youth served annually by Safe Shores, approximately 300 receive foster care/take away bags filled with new clothing, toiletries and transitional items.

Click here for more information on this ongoing collection for Safe Shores' Clothing Closet.

PRESS RELEASE: A Safe Place for the District's Children Gets A New Home

Safe Shores' Board of Directors will host a special hard hat tour of Safe Shores' new home on Thursday, April 30, 2009. After five years of planning, the former Bundy School will become the new home of Safe Shores and D.C.'s Multidisciplinary Team (MDT) on Child Abuse Investigations and Prosecutions. Safe shores is conducting this tour to highlight a successful public-private partnership in fighting child abuse, show the investment in the future of D.C.'s children includes a new, inviting space, and to encourage the general public to do more to protect children from physical and sexual abuse.

Click here to view the full release.

Safe Shores Targets Free Prevention Trainings for 100 D.C. Adults in April 2009

In recognition of Child Abuse Awareness and Prevention Month this April, Safe Shores is offering a FREE Stewards of Children training on child sexual abuse prevention to the first 100 adult registrants. This revolutionary interactive prevention program was developed by Darkness to Light, a national child sexual abuse prevention organization. Click here for more information about the training curriculum and how to receive your FREE training.

IN THE NEWS, December 2008: Washingtonian features Safe Shores

In the article "64 Ways to Do Good", The Washingtonian magazine featured the good work of Safe Shores in its December 2008 issue.

Safe Shores' Holiday Assistance Drive, December 2008

In 2008, Safe Shores helped make the season brighter for almost 160 children by matching its child clients and their siblings with individual and corporate donors from the D.C. community.

IN THE NEWS, July 2008: Predators Who Can Lurk Anywhere

Click here to read the article "Predators Who Can Lurk Anywhere" by Safe Shores Executive Director Michele Booth Cole published in The Washington Post's Closer To Home section on Sunday, July 13, 2008.

Safe Shores Kicks Off Annual Back To School Drive, July 2008

Each year , Safe Shores collects backpacks and school supplies for distribution to the children it serves. In 2008, over 100 children received Back To School backpacks stuffed with the specific school supplies required for a child's grade. Safe Shores is grateful for the generosity of individual and corporate donors that make the Annual Back To School Drive a success each year.

Safe Shores Releases Fiscal Year 2007 Annual Report, July 2008

Click here to download a copy of Safe Shores' most recent Annual Report.

IN THE NEWS, February 2008: Safe Shores featured on WAMU Metro Connection

It is a rare occasion that Safe Shores can share a first-hand client or caregiver perspective on the impact that the work of Safe Shores and its partner agencies has on a child victim of abuse. In this compelling story on WAMU's Metro Connection, the words of a caregiver brings to life the hope in intervention and the excerpts of a child client's interaction provides a true sense of the child-friendly approach that drives Safe Shores' work.

The interview conducted by Senior Reporter Rosiland Jordan also spotlights Executive Director Michele Booth Cole as a recent recipient of a 2007 Exponent Award from the Eugene and Agnes E. Meyer Foundation for excellence in nonprofit management.

Click here to access the interview (as available on WAMU's website in Real Audio or Windows Media).

Safe Shores' Holiday Assistance Drive Concludes, December 2007

In 2007, Safe Shores helped make the season brighter for almost 165 children by matching its child clients and their siblings with individual and corporate donors from the D.C. community.

PRESS RELEASE: Safe Shores' Executive Director Selected for Meyer Foundation Leadership Initiative Award, October 2007

To read more, click here for the press release.

Safe Shores Releases Fiscal Year 2005-2006 Annual Report, September 2007

Click here to download a copy of Safe Shores' FY2005-FY2006 Report.

Safe Shores' Back to School Drive Concludes, August 2007

Our 2007 Back to School Drive has concluded and was a huge success! On a daily basis, children are leaving the Center with backpacks filled with supplies and ready to start the new school year. A huge thank you to all who donated supplies, gift cards and monetary donations in support of our child clients!

President of Board of Directors Receives NCA Individual Volunteer Leadership Award, June 2007

Sandra L. Merin, the President of the Board of Directors for Safe Shores, was honored as the 2007 recipient of the Individual Volunteer Leadership Award, presented by the National Children's Alliance at their Annual Awards Luncheon on June 20, 2007. To read more, click here for the press release or visit NCA Online.

Executive Director Receives HHS ACF Commissioner’s Award, April 2007

The Department of Health and Human Services’ Administration for Children and Families (ACF) announced Michele Booth Cole, executive director of Safe Shores, as one of the awardees for the 2007 Commissioner’s Award in Portland, Oregon during their 16th National Conference on Child Abuse and Neglect.  To read more, click here.

Safe Shores Launches Stewards of Children Training, January 2007

Five Safe Shores staff members have been trained as facilitators in Darkness to Light's Stewards of Children prevention curriculum. Stewards of Children is a comprehensive, evidence-based sexual abuse prevention training program that educates adults to prevent, recognize, and react responsibly to child sexual abuse. Click here for more information about prevention education and training programs.

Safe Shores Seeks Volunteers

Safe Shores is actively recruiting volunteers for our Youth Activity Program and Clothes Closet Program. To learn more about these volunteer opportunities, click here.

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