Rally Kicks Off Child Abuse Prevention Month

April 3, 2025

 

Mansfield, OH – In a vibrant kickoff to Child Abuse Prevention Month, Richland County Children Services (RCCS) partnered with Malabar Intermediate School for a rally that sparked joy and hope within the community. Held on Tuesday, April 1, this year’s theme, “Doing Things Differently: Believing in Communities,” resonated throughout the event, celebrating the resilience of families and the ongoing work dedicated to protecting children and uniting families across Richland County.

The rally featured impactful proclamations from notable figures including Tammy Puff, Director of Military and Veteran Relations for the Office of Governor Mike DeWine, and Mansfield City Mayor Jodie Perry, both of whom recognized April as Child Abuse Prevention Month. Richland County Commissioners Cliff Mears, Tony Vero, and Darrell Banks also joined the festivities, demonstrating a unified commitment to child welfare.

                   

Tammy Puff, Dir. Military/Veterans Relations                         Mayor Jodie Perry

Community members were inspired by an array of speakers, including Tara Lautzenhiser, Executive Director of Richland County Children Services (RCCS); Tom Hager, Principal, Malabar Intermediate School; Cristen Gilbert, Executive Director of the Mansfield Branch-YMCA of North Central Ohio; Raykayla Smith, Miss Black Ohio America Teen 2024; and Sean Trourten, a dedicated sixth-grade student at Malabar Intermediate. Pastor Aaron Williams Jr. of Maddox Memorial Church of God in Christ also shared heartfelt messages, emphasizing the collective effort needed to uplift families within our community.

      

RCCS Executive Director Tara Lautzenhiser

 

      

                                                                           Community Speakers 

The highlight of the event was the keynote address delivered by Teana Sykes, a renowned author, speaker, coach and creator of “Tea Talk”, who urged students to believe in their potential and support one another. “When children thrive, communities thrive,” Sykes proclaimed, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of those in attendance.

                    Keynote Speaker Teana Sykes

Emceed by Aurelio Diaz, Mansfield City Councilman for Ward 5 and founder/coach of Troupe Flow, the rally was filled with energy, including a lively line dance that got students moving and celebrating. An extra dose of excitement came from the appearance of the Mansfield City School Tyger Mascot, bringing smiles and cheer to all.

         

Aurelio Diaz, Mansfield City Councilman                                                 Tyger Mascot

In recognition of their participation, RCCS gifted each student with treat bags and blue wristbands bearing empowering messages: “I Am Brave,” “I Am Loved,” and “I Am Smart.” These tokens serve as reminders of the strength and value of every child in our community.

Malabar Intermediate Dean of Students John Beasley, Principal Tom Hager and their dynamic staff.

“As Richland County comes together to observe Child Abuse Prevention Month, RCCS and Malabar Intermediate School stand united in their mission to create safe and nurturing environments for all children. Together, we can foster a culture of belief in our communities and inspire change that uplifts families today and every day, “said Brigitte Coles, Community Engagement Supervisor.

Please call the Richland County Children Services 24-hour child abuse hotline at 419-774-4100 to report child abuse and neglect.

« Back to News