By Caitlin Bausch
The Rainbow Project
The Rainbow Project invites the Madison community to join us in raising awareness about the importance of child abuse and neglect prevention. Children are the foundation of our society, our community and our future. When we focus on preventing child abuse and neglect, the results are better childhoods, leading to healthier adults and stronger communities.
Every community has a vested interest in preventing child maltreatment. Research has shown that for every dollar spent on prevention, $28 is saved on future alcohol and drug addiction treatment, psychiatric care, incarceration, unemployment and chronic health issues. We all can play a part in prevention efforts by helping children understand their feelings, connecting with others, building inner strength, supporting parents and providing resources to those who need help. These efforts are even more important given this uncertain and stressful time.
The Rainbow Project is hosting a virtual learning series throughout the month of April that features local speakers and experts discussing how their work contributes to building stronger communities. These presentations are free and open to the public. To learn more about the series and how to register, visit The Rainbow Project’s website at therainbowproject.net.
Rainbow continues to provide vital support and mental health treatment to families through its continuum of services, two of which operate exclusively on Madison’s Northside. The Rainbow Project was recently selected to provide in-home mental health services in the Northside Early Childhood Zone. This program works in collaboration with the Northside community and home visitors to ensure that parents with young children receive the support they need. Rainbow has also partnered with Kennedy Heights Community Center to provide consultation, training and evaluation services for Kennedy Heights staff and families.
We hope many of you will join The Rainbow Project and other organizations this April, and the rest of the year, in shining a light on child abuse and neglect prevention.