Dear McMahon Ryan Child Advocacy Center Family,

At McMahon Ryan Child Advocacy Center, we believe open and ongoing conversations about personal safety are essential for our kids. We encourage parents and caregivers to talk regularly with children about identifying trusted adults in their lives. It’s also important to let children know they have the right to say “no” to anything that makes them feel uncomfortable. When these conversations are part of everyday life, they become less intimidating and more empowering.

A key part of these discussions should include body autonomy. Children need to understand that their bodies belong to them — and that private parts are just that: private. No one should touch them without permission, and it’s always okay to speak up if something feels wrong.

In light of recent events in our community, we want to emphasize that it’s important for parents and guardians to stay informed about their child’s daily routines and whereabouts. These basic safety measures, when combined with open communication, can be powerful tools in preventing abuse.

A sobering reality is that only 1 in 10 children disclose abuse. Many children remain silent due to manipulation, threats, or promises made by their abusers. This can lead to confusion, fear, and a reluctance to speak out. That’s why it’s so important to help children recognize “tricky behaviors” — like an adult asking them to keep secrets, offering gifts, or seeking help in a way that doesn’t feel right.

Above all, children need to understand that abuse is never their fault — and that there are safe, caring adults who will believe them and help.



Keep an eye on our social media and website for more tips in keeping children safe.



Warm regards,

Mrs. Erin Bates

Our 22nd Annual 100 Holes 4 Kids Golf Tournament was a tremendous success—thanks to the dedication and generosity of the 19 golfers pictured above.

Together, they raised nearly $120,000 to support our mission, each committing to raise a minimum of $3,000 and play 100 holes of golf in just one day. Whether it’s the physical challenge or the fundraising goal—this event is no small feat!

We’re proud to spotlight two standout participants:

🌟 Jim McElhannon, our top fundraiser, brought in an incredible $30,000 this year.

🌟 Cassie Breen, our first-ever female participant and a valued MRCAC board member, raised an impressive $7,500!

We’re incredibly grateful to have all 19 of these amazing individuals in our corner, raising awareness and vital funds for our work.

Special thanks to C.O. Falter Construction Corp. for returning as our Presenting Sponsor for the third consecutive year, and to Bellevue Country Club for once again hosting this event with care and excellence.



Finally, a heartfelt thank you to Thom McMahon, MRCAC board member and longtime event leader, whose dedication and vision have helped make this fundraiser a success year after year.

Friday 8/15 @ Drumlins

Cops 4 Kids (formally known as Karts 4 Kids) is a golf tournament put on by the Law Enforcement – Special Victims Unit at McMahon Ryan Child Advocacy Center. The Annual Captain and Crew golf tournament will benefit McMahon Ryan Child Advocacy Center, as it works to end child abuse in Onondaga County. Join us for a fun day of golf, on-course games, and raffles.

Teams selling out fast – register now!

We also have amazing sponsor opportunities starting as low as $100.00! View more information below.

Friday 9/12 @ MRCAC & J.E School District

Get ready to ride for a cause, we invite you to participate in Gear Up 4 Kids, a bike-a-thon from our Center on East Genesee Street to the Jordan Elbridge Central School District: JE Elementary School, JE Middle School and JE High School. The majority of the ride will take place on the Empire State Trail.

Whether you’re an experienced cyclist or new to riding, this event offers a meaningful way to make a difference. Participants will ride in groups led by experienced cyclists, with safety training available for those who need it.

Thursday 9/25 @ Marriott Hotel Syracuse

Join fellow professionals and experts for a day of presentations and workshops about preventing child abuse and working with victims.

Each year, around 300 professionals attend workshops led by expert educators and presenters.

The one-day conference is intended for school personnel, prosecutors, law enforcement, probation officers, child protective/child welfare personnel, mental health professionals, medical providers and other professionals working with children.

Registration will open up in July!

June is national Safety Month. Our amazing Outreach & Education team has put together some safety materials to help keep your children safe all summer long. From Internet safety while children are home from school for the summer, to keeping your children safe in the water – we hope this information helps you in keeping your kids safe all summer long.

Safety Reminders for kids:

• If anyone or anything makes you feel unsafe or uncomfortable…trust your feelings and instincts. Say words that mean “no”, run away from the situation and tell a safe, trusted adult what happened.
• If anyone or anything makes you feel unsafe or uncomfortable online…don’t share personal information. Report and block inappropriate people/content. Ask a safe, trusted adult for help.

Our Outreach & Education team provides different forms of prevention education including internet safety and anti-bullying programs. Additionally, we have professional and community trainings for adults as well. Check out our website to learn more about our Outreach & Education team!

We are currently looking for volunteers to help cover our front desk during after-hours therapy appointments. This role includes greeting families, answering phone calls, and providing general support during evening hours.

If you’re looking for a simple and meaningful way to get involved, we’d love to hear from you. For more information, please contact Nina Peters at npeters@mcmahonryan.org.



Your time and support can make a big difference!

The Onondaga County Child Fatality Review Team is sharing important findings from a new study out of the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus. The research highlights that co-sleeping—no matter the location—significantly increases the risk of sudden unexpected infant death (SUID), including SIDS and accidental suffocation. Nearly 60% of the 7,600 cases reviewed involved infants sleeping in shared spaces, most often adult beds. The team urges families to follow safe sleep guidelines: always place babies on their backs, on a firm, flat surface, in their own sleep space free of blankets, pillows, or other soft items. This small step can make a big difference in keeping infants safe.