April 2025 Newsletter

Letter from Executive Director

Dear McMahon Ryan Child Advocacy Center Family,

It is well known that children who experience the trauma of abuse are at risk for long-term mental, behavioral, and physical health challenges—especially without proper support and healing. What is less often talked about is that children may not always realize they can speak up, or even that what they’re experiencing is wrong. That’s why our work matters.

At McMahon Ryan Child Advocacy Center, every child who walks through our doors is met with trauma-informed care in a safe, welcoming, and child-friendly space. We work in close collaboration with law enforcement, medical professionals, and mental health providers to deliver a comprehensive, compassionate response to abuse.

As we recognize National Child Abuse Prevention Month during the month of April, we are reminded of the strength and resilience of the children and families we serve—and the power of a community that stands behind them.

We are so thankful for those of you who continue to show your support—whether by planting pinwheels, wearing a pinwheel pin, attending our events, or simply starting conversations that raise awareness. Every action, big or small, sends a powerful message: children deserve to be safe, heard, and believed. Your support makes healing possible. Thank you for walking alongside us in this mission.

Warm regards,

Mrs. Erin Bates

Multi-Disciplinary Team (MDT) Spotlight:

Mike Bates

With an incredible 28 years in law enforcement, Mike Bates has dedicated nearly a third of his career—8 years—to the Special Victims Unit, where he’s made a profound impact in the lives of children and families affected by abuse.

Mike is an integral part of the Child Advocacy Center’s Multi-Disciplinary Team (CAC/MDT), and he thrives in the collaborative environment it fosters. “I enjoy working with other professionals, each within their own area of expertise, to achieve the common goal of helping kids who are victims of physical and sexual abuse,” he shares.

What drives Mike most is being the voice for children when they bravely disclose the unimaginable. “I take pride in standing up for them—being their voice—especially when that leads to an arrest,” he says. “Watching the whole MDT come together—police, the DA’s office, advocates, medical staff—throughout the court process and ultimately getting a guilty verdict gives me a real sense of vindication for the victims and their families.”

Mike’s passion and dedication continue to serve as an example to others in the field. His unwavering commitment to justice and compassion for the most vulnerable members of our community remind us why this work matters—every single day.

Employee of the month –

Elba Maite Rizo Cedeno

We’re overjoyed to welcome the newest member of our McMahon Ryan family—Elba Maite Rizo Cedeno—who has joined us as our new Housing Advocate! Elba became part of our team in October 2024, and from the very beginning, she has been an incredible gift to our agency. With a background in journalism, audiovisual production, and community management, Elba brings a beautiful blend of creativity, compassion, and deep dedication to serving others.

As a refugee, Elba offers a powerful and personal perspective that has already enriched the way we connect with and support our most vulnerable communities. Her lived experiences and her heartfelt passion for our mission—to uplift underrepresented voices and create meaningful, lasting change—are truly inspiring. In her role, Elba has been walking alongside our clients with care and empathy, advocating for their needs, and helping us build stronger, more supportive relationships within our community. Her presence reminds us of the power of resilience, empathy, and the incredible strength found in shared humanity.

We are so grateful to have Elba with us, and we know she will continue to be an invaluable part of our journey forward. Welcome to the team, Elba—you already make us better.

There’s still time to get your Go Blue 4 Kids Breakfast Tickets!

Friday, April 18th at the Marriott Downtown 7:30am

The Go Blue 4 Kids Breakfast brings community members together to talk about the uncomfortable, but real, subject of child abuse. This informational breakfast will feature keynote speaker, Elijah Lee, a 17-year-old student, community activist, and advocate for children. Get your tickets now!

Buy Tickets here

Close out April’s Child Abuse Prevention month with the Step Up 4 Kids 5K & Kids fun run

The 9th Annual Step Up 4 Kids 5K & Kids Fun Run will close out April’s Child Abuse Prevention Month on Sunday, April 27th at Leavenworth Park. This family-fun event will be followed by a post-race party hosted by Middle Ages with live music and food trucks! Register now, prices will keep increasing as we get closer to event day.

100 Holes 4 Kids is on May 19th

at Bellevue Country Club

This isn’t your average golf tournament. 100 Holes 4 Kids is a unique opportunity for an exclusive set of community leaders and golfers to fund raise and compete in a 100-hole, 12-hour long tournament at Bellevue Country Club located right here in Syracuse.

Each golfer works to raise money for the center leading up to this incredible event! Check out the link below to support a golfer as they fundraise to support McMahon Ryan Child Advocacy Center!

Support a Golfer

Join Our Go Blue 4 Kids Campaign This April!

Purchase Items online

Help us turn Onondaga blue in support of Child Abuse Prevention Month! This April, we’re raising awareness by selling Go Blue items and pinwheels, the national symbol of a happy and healthy childhood.

Here’s how you can get involved:

🔹 Wear your support – Rock Go Blue pins, stickers, and bracelets all month long.

🔹 Plant a Pinwheel Garden – Display pinwheels in your yard to spread awareness.

🔹 Send a “Blow Away” – Surprise a friend, neighbor, or family member! A staff member will plant 50 pinwheels and a lawn sign in their yard, along with a letter explaining they’ve been “Blown Away.” They’ll be encouraged to continue the challenge, helping to spread awareness and fundraising efforts even further.

Together, we can make a difference—one pinwheel at a time! 💙

Paper Order Form

Paper Blow Away Order Form

Check out our Third-Party Fundraisers this April!

We’re incredibly grateful to the local businesses hosting third-party fundraisers to support McMahon Ryan Child Advocacy Center this April!

Thank you for joining us in our Go Blue 4 Kids campaign and helping raise awareness and support for children in our community.

Check out all the amazing fundraisers happening this April:

Rise N Shine Diner

All April
Specialty Cocktail: “Duck in the Sky”
All proceeds from this featured drink will benefit McMahon Ryan.

Coach Store at Destiny USA

All April
Blanket Drive
Donate a new blanket and get entered to win a Coach purse! Every blanket will support a child’s first visit to our Center—a small comfort that means so much.

Glow Yoga & Smoothie Bar – DeWitt

Saturday, April 26 | 10–11 AM
Fundraiser Yoga Class
A donation is required to attend. Plus, 10% of all smoothie sales on 4/26 will be donated to our Center.
Call 315-446-4141 to sign up!

Sweet Frog – Camillus

Monday, April 28 | 5–9 PM
Mention McMahon Ryan Child Advocacy Center at checkout and a portion of your purchase will be donated to our cause.

Right Mind Syracuse @ Home Team Pub

Tuesday, April 29 | 6 PM
Craft Class: Candle & Bracelet Making
A fun and creative way to give back! Register at RightMindSyracuse.com

Thank you to these amazing businesses for supporting our mission this month! Every dollar and donation helps bring healing, hope, and justice to children in our community. #GoBlue4Kids

Child Abuse Prevention Toolkit

As we observe Child Abuse Prevention Month this April, we encourage you to explore the Child Abuse Prevention Center’s Toolkit (linked below) for valuable resources and strategies to support families in your community.

Inside the toolkit, you’ll find:

Talking points to help raise awareness about child abuse prevention.

Family-strengthening tips to support healthy and safe environments for children.

Engagement activities that can help you make a meaningful impact throughout the month of April.

These resources are designed to enhance your outreach and elevate your efforts in preventing child abuse, while fostering strong and supportive communities.

Access Toolkit Here

CFRT – Navigating Child Abuse Prevention: Resources & Interventions (Webinar Recording)

Check out this archived recorded webinar hosted by the Children’s Safety Network on navigating child abuse prevention resources and interventions. This informative session covered key tools, strategies, and support networks available for child welfare professionals, caregivers, and community leaders focused on preventing and addressing child abuse. The recording explores effective prevention programs, intervention techniques, and how to connect with vital resources in your community. Whether you’re an experienced professional or new to the field, this webinar offers valuable insights and practical steps to protect children and support families.

Catch up on this essential content at your convenience and take meaningful action toward building a safer environment for all children.

Listen here