Each April – in recognition of Child Abuse Prevention Month – Crescent House, Navicent Health encourages discussion of this important issue through an annual Child Abuse Prevention Symposium.
 
The Child Abuse Prevention Symposium, scheduled Wednesday, April 12 from 8:00 a.m. until 4:30 p.m., will take place at The Medical Center, Navicent Health’s Peyton Anderson Health Education Center, located at 877 Hemlock Street in Macon.
 
Topics at this year’s symposium include Prosecuting Child Molesters, Normal Stuff that Isn’t Abuse, Mandated Reporter Training, and Inappropriate Sexual Behaviors of Children. The keynote message is “The Mess Became My Message: From Heartache to Hope!”
 
This event is open to the public. Law enforcement, social workers, medical professionals and educators are particularly encouraged to attend. Participants may register at www.navicenthealth.org ($30 registration fee).
 
The Honorable Robert A.B. Reichert, Mayor of Macon-Bibb County, will read a proclamation at 9:00 a.m. declaring the consolidated government’s commitment to support children and families by ending the cycle of abuse and neglect.
 
“April is a time to recognize that each member of the community has a role in promoting the social and emotional wellbeing of children and families. Ending the cycle of abuse and neglect is an effort that requires the vigilance of all members of our community. Crescent House and Navicent Health are pleased to partner with Macon-Bibb County, as well as the Board of Education, Department of Family and Children’s Services, District Attorney’s Office, local law enforcement and public safety agencies and healthcare organizations to address this issue,” said Kemberlie Sanderson, Director of Crescent House, Navicent Health.