October 2025 Newsletter

Letter from Executive Director

Dear McMahon Ryan Child Advocacy Center Family,

October brings changing leaves, cooler weather—and a renewed commitment to the well-being of children and families. At McMahon Ryan Child Advocacy Center, we proudly recognize SIDS Awareness Month, National Bullying Prevention Month, and Cybersecurity Awareness Month.

In today’s connected world, online safety is just as essential as physical safety. As we shine a light on these critical issues, we’re reminded of the many ways we can come together to protect and empower the children in our community. At the heart of our mission is the belief that every child deserves to feel safe, seen, and supported. These awareness months not only highlight the progress we’ve made—they also reinforce the important work still ahead. Through education, advocacy, and community outreach, we are working every day to build safer, healthier environments where all children can thrive.

I’m elated to share some important resources with you below. Because as we know—it truly takes a village.

Warm regards,

Mrs. Erin Bates

Spotlighting Lysa & Eric Mills

Multi-Disciplinary Team (MDT) Spotlight:

Lysa Mills

This month, we’re shining our spotlight on Lysa, a dedicated member of the Onondaga County Sheriff’s Office (OCSO) who has served in law enforcement for 14 years—9.5 of those with OCSO—and has been a vital part of the Special Victims Unit (SVU) at McMahon Ryan Child Advocacy Center for the past six years.

Lysa describes her motivation simply: “Changing a child’s life for the better.” Her compassion and commitment extend far beyond closing a case—she often keeps in touch with survivors for years, long after their cases have been resolved. Witnessing their strength, resilience, and satisfaction with how their cases were handled continues to inspire her every day. Lysa shared that she strives “to be and do better for these children each and every day,” a reflection of her deep dedication to helping children heal and find hope.

We’re grateful to have Lysa as part of our multidisciplinary team, working tirelessly to protect and empower the children of Onondaga County.

Employee of the Month: Eric Mills

This month, we’re proud to spotlight Eric Mills, our Maintenance & Mobile Unit Driver, our go-to problem solver and all-around helping hand here at McMahon Ryan Child Advocacy Center. Eric has been part of our team for almost three years, keeping our building running smoothly and lending a hand wherever he’s needed.

With an older building that often needs extra care, Eric is always there to step in—whether it’s a repair, a project, or helping transport our Mobile Unit to community events and outreach programs. His reliability, hard work, and positive attitude make a huge difference every single day.

We’re so grateful for Eric’s dedication and the pride he takes in keeping our Center—and our mission—running strong.

2025 HOLIDAY ANGELS PROJECT

As the season of giving approaches, we’re excited to share that our beloved Holiday Angels Project will be returning this year!

🌟🎄🎁

Each holiday season, our community comes together to brighten the lives of children and families impacted by abuse—and we’re endlessly grateful for the generosity and heart that make this possible.

Every year we look to our many wonderful supporters to serve as “Angels” to families that we serve. We invite you, your family, office, or organization to become a Holiday Angel this year by adopting a child or family in need. Your support will help ensure that Onondaga County children who have experienced the trauma of abuse can still experience the joy of the holidays.

There are many ways to get involved:

✨ Adopt a child and shop for gifts that meet their needs and wishes (two needs and one want for each child)

🎁 Donate funds to help us provide holiday gifts for families

🎀 Donate wrapping supplies: Scissors, tape, wrapping paper, gift bags, and large totes for transporting gifts

🎄 Volunteer to wrap presents with us this December

To sign up, CLICK HERE or email our Development Specialist, Catherine Cramer, at CCramer@mcmahonryan.org.

CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR HOLIDAY ANGELS

CFRT Safety Spotlight:

October is SIDs Awareness Month

October is dedicated to raising awareness about Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) and educating parents and caregivers on prevention strategies.

Safety Tips for Infant Sleep

Always place babies on their back to sleep.
Use a firm mattress in the crib.
Keep the crib area free of blankets, toys, and pillows.
Use sleep sacks to keep babies warm instead of loose bedding.

Common Risk Factors

Premature birth
Alcohol or drug use during pregnancy
Low birth weight
Overheating
Babies sleeping on their stomach

Did You Know?

SIDS is not caused by genetics alone—it results from a combination of factors.
Babies should sleep in a crib or bassinet, not on couches or armchairs.
Room-sharing without bed-sharing can help reduce the risk of SIDS.

Halloween Safety Tips!

Check out these helpful safety tips from our Outreach and Education Department at McMahon Ryan Child Advocacy Center. Wishing everyone a fun and safe Halloween this year!

🎃 Halloween Safety Tips for a Spooktacular & Safe Night

As Halloween approaches, the excitement builds for costumes, candy, and community fun. At McMahon Ryan Child Advocacy Center, we want to ensure every child enjoys a safe and memorable night.

👗 Costume Safety

Costumes are a big part of Halloween magic—but they should also be safe and comfortable. According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and Safe Kids Worldwide, here’s how to keep costume fun hazard-free:

Avoid masks that obstruct vision: Opt for non-toxic face paint or makeup instead (CPSC).
Choose flame-resistant materials: Look for labels that say “flame resistant” and avoid long, trailing fabric.
Ensure proper fit: Costumes should not drag on the ground or be too loose—this helps prevent trips and falls.
Add visibility: Use reflective tape or glow-in-the-dark accessories to help drivers see children in the dark (Safe Kids).

🚶 Trick-or-Treating Safety

Halloween night is one of the most dangerous evenings for child pedestrians. Here’s how to keep your little ones safe while collecting treats:

Always accompany young children: Children under 12 should trick-or-treat with a trusted adult (Safe Kids).
Stick to well-lit areas: Use sidewalks and crosswalks, and avoid cutting across yards or alleys.
Teach traffic safety: Remind kids to look both ways before crossing and to make eye contact with drivers.
Carry flashlights or glow sticks: These help children see and be seen.
Check treats before eating: Discard anything unwrapped or suspicious. Encourage kids to wait until they’re home to enjoy their candy (CPSC).

📚 Helpful Resources

Halloween should be filled with laughter, not accidents. By following these simple safety tips, families can enjoy a night of spooky fun while keeping children safe and sound.

OCTOBER AWARENESS SPOTLIGHT: BULLYING PREVENTION & CYBERSECURITY

October marks two important national campaigns: National Bullying Prevention Month and Cybersecurity Awareness Month. Both initiatives aim to protect and empower children and families—whether in person or online.

🧡 National Bullying Awareness Month

Founded by PACER’s National Bullying Prevention Center in 2006, this month-long campaign promotes kindness, acceptance, and inclusion to prevent bullying in schools and communities.

How Parents Can Get Involved:

Unity Day (October 22nd): Encourage your child to wear orange to show support for kindness and inclusion.
Student Activity Kit: Download PACER’s free four-week activity kit with theme weeks, classroom projects, and reflection activities. [pacer.org]
Kids & Teens Against Bullying Websites: Interactive platforms designed to help youth understand and respond to bullying:
Kids Against Bullying
Teens Against Bullying. [pacer.org]
Parent Guide: “Beyond Sticks & Stones” offers practical advice for helping children address bullying. Available through PACER’s Show Your Support page. [pacer.org]

🔐 Cybersecurity Awareness Month

Led by the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) and the National Cybersecurity Alliance (NCA), this campaign empowers families to stay safe online with simple, effective habits. This Year’s Theme: “Stay Safe Online”

Focus on the Core 4—four easy steps to boost your family’s online safety:

Use strong passwords and a password manager.
Turn on multifactor authentication.
Recognize and report scams.
Update your software regularly. [staysafeonline.org]

Resources for Parents:

Cybersecurity Awareness Toolkit: CISA’s toolkit includes tip sheets, posters, and campaign materials for families and schools. [cisa.gov]
Cyber Essentials Guide: A starter kit for small organizations and families to build cyber readiness. Available via CISA’s training page. [cisa.gov]
StaySafeOnline.org: Offers webinars, downloadable resources, and a Champion program to help families and schools promote cybersecurity awareness. [staysafeonline.org]

In Memory of Mr. John Blattner

This month, we honor the life and legacy of Mr. John Blattner, whose kindness and generosity continue to make an impact. In lieu of flowers, John’s family and friends chose to support our mission, raising over $4,500 to help protect and advocate for children in our community. We are deeply grateful for this incredible tribute.

To learn more about John’s life and the legacy he leaves behind, you can read his obituary here.

If you would like to make a gift in John’s memory, please visit the following link and mark “I would like to dedicate this donation”: http://weblink.donorperfect.com/mrcacdonation

Save the Date!

Our largest fundraiser of the year, The Pinwheel Ball, will take place on Friday, April 17, 2026 at the Oncenter. Join us for an evening to celebrate those in our community who help fight against child abuse. We will have live music, cocktails and dinner, along with silent and live auctions. More information coming soon

The 10th Annual Step Up 4 Kids 5K & Kids Fun Run will close our April’s Child Abuse Prevention Month on Sunday, April 26, 2026 at Middle Ages Brewery. This family-fun event will be followed by a post-race party hosted by Middle Ages with live music and food trucks! Registration will open on January 1st! We would like to thank OneGroup for returning as this year’s Presenting Sponsor!

MRCAC FALL TEAM OUTING

🎃 Team Outing to Tim’s Pumpkin Patch

Last week, our team spent a wonderful afternoon at Tim’s Pumpkin Patch, celebrating the beauty of fall and enjoying time together outside the office. From picking pumpkins to savoring warm cider and donuts, it was a perfect way to relax and connect as a team.

Highlights of the day included:

Exploring the pumpkin fields and finding the perfect pumpkins.
Visiting farm animals and learning about local agriculture.
Laughing our way through hayrides and the corn maze.

We’re grateful for these moments that strengthen our team and remind us of the importance of community and joy. Thank you to everyone who joined and made the day special!

(Check out the photos below for some of our favorite memories!)