Dear McMahon Ryan Child Advocacy Center Family,

September brings new backpacks, new classrooms, new routines, and new opportunities for children to learn and grow. As students head back to school, it is important to remember that a successful school year is about more than academics it is also about helping children feel safe, supported, connected, and heard.

For families, the transition back to school can bring excitement, but it can also bring stress and uncertainty. Changes in routines, academic expectations, friendships, activities, and social pressures can sometimes feel overwhelming for children and teens.

Children may not always tell us right away when something is wrong. Creating regular, judgment-free opportunities to talk can help children know that when they are ready to share, someone is there to listen.

This month, we encourage parents and caregivers to make mental health part of their back-to-school conversations. Ask questions, listen without judgment, pay attention to changes in behavior, and remind children that they do not have to navigate difficult feelings or experiences alone.

September is also Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, making this an especially important time to talk openly about mental health, connection, and reaching out for support. Knowing where to turn for help—and understanding that asking for help is a sign of strength—can make an important difference. If you or someone you know needs emotional support, the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is available 24/7 by calling or texting 988.

At McMahon Ryan Child Advocacy Center, our work is rooted in one fundamental belief: every child deserves to feel safe, supported, and heard.

As another school year begins, we are grateful for the parents, caregivers, educators, law enforcement professionals, medical and mental health providers, community partners, volunteers, and supporters who work alongside us every day to create safer childhoods.

Together, we can help ensure that every child begins this school year knowing they are valued, supported, and never alone.

Warm regards,

Mrs. Erin Bates

LAST CHANCE TO REGISTER FOR THE 9TH ANNUAL STAND AGAINST CHILD ABUSE CONFERENCE!

There’s 10 DAYS LEFT to register for McMahon Ryan Child Advocacy Center’s 9th Annual Stand Against Child Abuse Conference on September 30.

Join hundreds of professionals dedicated to protecting children and supporting victims of abuse. This full-day conference brings together experts, advocates, educators, medical professionals, law enforcement, prosecutors, child welfare professionals, and others committed to strengthening their knowledge and skills.

This year’s conference features an exceptional lineup of presenters covering topics including:

·    Child abuse investigations and multidisciplinary team responses

·    Digital safety, AI, and online exploitation

·    Human trafficking awareness and response

·    Trauma-informed practice and professional resilience

·    Child victim behavior and survivor perspectives

·    Supporting children with disabilities within CAC and MDT systems

Survivor of Child Sexual Abuse & Assistant U.S. Attorney in Detroit

Kevin is a survivor of child sexual abuse. He works as an Assistant U.S. Attorney in Detroit. Throughout his career, Kevin has prosecuted a variety of cases, including offenses involving firearms, drugs, bank robberies, threats, terrorism, and a wide variety of other federal prosecutions. But most of his caseload focuses on child exploitation crimes, including production of child pornography cases, traveler cases, and other significant crimes against children prosecutions. Kevin has been a prosecutor since 2002, all on the federal level, with the first 3 1/2 years as an AUSA in San Diego, and the rest in Detroit.

Kevin obtained his undergraduate degree in Statistics and American Culture from the University of Michigan and his JD from Santa Clara School of Law, where he was Editor-in-Chief of the Santa Clara Law Review. He has 3 kids, 2 cats, and a very nice wife.

Click below to register to see the Keynote Speaker and attend the Breakfast portion for only for $30!

HEALING, EDUCATION & CONNECTION:

Mike Lew Comes to Syracuse

McMahon Ryan Child Advocacy Center is proud to partner with Vera House, The Hope, Healing and Solidarity Coalition, and THRIVE to welcome Mike Lew, M.Ed., an internationally recognized author, trainer, and expert on healing from childhood sexual abuse, to Syracuse this October.

Mike will lead three free events October 1–3, offering opportunities for community members, professionals, and male survivors to learn, connect, and explore healing.

📅 Thursday, October 1 | Community Discussion

Dynamics & Impacts of Childhood Sexual Abuse

6:00–7:45 PM | Fayetteville Free Library

A free community discussion and Q&A exploring the experiences and unique challenges faced by male survivors. Open to survivors, families, friends, allies, and community members. Refreshments provided.

📅 Friday, October 2 | Professional Training

Male Survivors of Childhood Sexual Abuse: Dynamics & Impacts Across the Life Course

9:00 AM–5:00 PM | OneGroup, Syracuse

A free, all-day professional development training for clinicians, counselors, advocates, and other professionals working with survivors of sexual trauma. Lunch and materials included. Advance registration required.

Register here!



📅 Saturday, October 3 | Male Survivor Workshop

An Invitation to Explore Survivor Recovery

9:00 AM–5:00 PM | Vera House, Syracuse

A free, confidential workshop for adult male, non-offending survivors of childhood sexual abuse. Participants will have the opportunity to engage in guided healing exercises, storytelling, writing, small-group discussion, and creative expression. Lunch and materials included. Advance registration required.

Register here!

All three events are free. Whether you’re looking to better understand the impact of childhood sexual abuse, strengthen your professional knowledge, or connect with others on a healing journey, we invite you to join us for this important series.

Put your knowledge to the test, expand your professional network, and make a difference for local kids at Trivia Together 4 Kids!

The McMahon Ryan Child Advocacy Center Young Professionals Group is proud to present the inaugural Trivia Together 4 Kids, a fun and engaging evening of networking, friendly competition, and philanthropy on Friday, November 6, at Meier’s Creek Brewing Company in Cazenovia.

This exciting new event will bring together young professionals, business leaders, and community supporters from across Central New York for a memorable night that benefits children and families impacted by abuse.

More than just a trivia competition, Trivia Together 4 Kids is an opportunity to build meaningful professional connections, strengthen community partnerships, and support the vital work of McMahon Ryan Child Advocacy Center, Onondaga County’s first and only Child Advocacy Center. Every dollar raised helps provide advocacy, intervention, prevention, education, and support services that help children heal, grow, and thrive.

🎯 GATHER YOUR TEAM!

Looking for a fresh team-building opportunity or a unique night out with coworkers and friends?

Trivia Together 4 Kids is the perfect chance to challenge your colleagues, connect with professionals from other organizations, and enjoy an evening of food, drinks, laughs, and friendly rivalry. Corporate teams, community groups, and trivia enthusiasts are all encouraged to participate.

Bring your best thinkers, collaborate with your teammates, and compete for bragging rights while supporting a cause that matters to children throughout our community.



Form a team, make new connections, and join us for Central New York’s newest networking event with a purpose.

⭐ BECOME A SPONSOR!

Show your organization’s commitment to protecting children while gaining visibility among an audience of engaged professionals, business leaders, and community advocates.

Sponsorship opportunities range from Sponsor a Team ($250) and Raffle Sponsor ($500) to Round Sponsor ($1,250) and the exclusive Presenting Sponsor ($2,000) level.

Sponsors receive valuable recognition through event signage, social media promotion, event materials, and on-site visibility, depending on sponsorship level.

Your support helps fund programs and services for children and families affected by abuse while investing in prevention and education initiatives that create safer communities for all children.

Join us as a sponsor and help ensure every child is seen, heard, and protected.

Trivia Together 4 Kids is proudly presented by the McMahon Ryan Child Advocacy Center Young Professionals Group, bringing together the next generation of community leaders to connect and support children.

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.

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 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 or family: Provide gifts for children. Wish lists and sizes will be shared in early November.
• Donate wrapping supplies: Scissors, tape, wrapping paper, and gift bags are all needed.
• Volunteer your time: Join us in mid-December to help wrap presents. 
• Give a monetary donation

To sign up, fill out the form below.

Please direct questions to our Development Specialist, Catherine Cramer, at CCramer@mcmahonryan.org or fill out the form below.

Each September, National Suicide Prevention Month serves as a time to raise awareness, reduce stigma, and remind individuals and families that help and hope are available. Mental health challenges can affect anyone, regardless of age, background, or circumstance, making it important for communities to come together in support of those who may be struggling.

Throughout the month, organizations across the country encourage open conversations about mental health, promote suicide prevention education, and share resources that can help save lives. One of the most meaningful ways to support suicide prevention is by checking in with the people around us. A simple conversation, a listening ear, or a reminder that someone is not alone can make a significant difference.

The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) emphasizes the importance of talking openly about mental health and seeking support when needed. Through education, advocacy, support groups, and community programs, NAMI helps individuals and families access resources and build connections that foster resilience and recovery.

National Suicide Prevention Month is also an opportunity to learn the warning signs of emotional distress and to encourage those in need to seek professional help. By creating a culture of understanding and compassion, we can reduce stigma and ensure that more people feel comfortable reaching out for support.

If you or someone you know is struggling or experiencing a mental health crisis, immediate help is available through the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. Call or text 988 to connect with trained crisis counselors who provide free, confidential support 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Together, we can help create a community where every person feels seen, heard, valued, and supported. This National Suicide Prevention Month, take time to check in with those around you, learn about available resources, and help spread the message that hope and help are always within reach.

Resources

• National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI)
• 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline
• Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA)
• American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP)

SWIM 4 KIDS:

THANK YOU SCOTT & COOPER

We are proud to celebrate Scott and Cooper Dawson, whose dedication and determination have made a meaningful impact on the children and families served by McMahon Ryan Child Advocacy Center.

This inspiring father-son duo recently completed an extraordinary swim of nearly 20 miles across Oneida Lake, raising awareness and critical funds to support children impacted by abuse. Their remarkable achievement reflects not only incredible athletic endurance but also a deep commitment to strengthening our community and helping children on their path to healing.

Thanks to their efforts and the generosity of supporters, thousands of dollars have already been raised to further our mission. We are incredibly grateful for Scott and Cooper’s passion, compassion, and unwavering support.

Please join us in congratulating them on this outstanding accomplishment and consider supporting their fundraiser. Together, we can continue making a difference in the lives of the children and families who need us most.

Support the Dawsons’ Fundraiser HERE.

BACK TO SCHOOL SAFETY: THINK BEFORE YOU SHARE!

The first day of school is an exciting milestone for children and families. Whether your child is starting a new grade, meeting a new teacher, or attending a new school, it’s natural to want to celebrate and share those special moments with family and friends online.

However, before posting a first-day-of-school photo, take a moment to consider what information is visible. While school signs and social media posts are a fun tradition, they can sometimes reveal personal details that may put children at risk.

When sharing photos online, avoid including:

• Full names
• Age or date of birth
• School name
• Teacher’s name
• Home address
• Passwords or login information
• Any other details that could be used to identify or locate a child

Instead, consider using more general information, such as:

• Favorite color
• Favorite subject
• Hobbies or interests
• What they are excited about this school year
• Future goals and dreams

It’s also important to pay attention to the background of photos. School logos, street signs, house numbers, and other identifying details can unintentionally reveal more information than intended.

By making small adjustments to what we share online, we can help protect children’s privacy while still celebrating their achievements. Let’s work together to keep kids safe online this school year because you never know who may be viewing your posts.

In recognition of National Suicide Prevention Month, Onondaga County’s Child Fatality Review Team is highlighting the important role prevention plays in protecting the health and well-being of children and teens.

Our Child Fatality Review Team works with community partners to examine child deaths, identify risk factors, and develop recommendations aimed at preventing future tragedies. While many factors can contribute to a youth mental health crisis, strong support systems and early intervention can make a significant difference.

Parents, caregivers, educators, and trusted adults can help promote positive mental health by:

• Creating open lines of communication. Encourage children and teens to talk about their feelings and let them know it is okay to ask for help.
• Checking in regularly. Simple conversations about school, friendships, activities, and stressors can help identify concerns before they become overwhelming.
• Taking mental health concerns seriously. Expressions of hopelessness, withdrawal from friends and activities, dramatic mood changes, or talking about self-harm should never be ignored.
• Monitoring online activity. Social media and online interactions can affect a young person’s mental health. Maintaining age-appropriate oversight and discussing online safety can help reduce risks.
• Helping youth build healthy coping skills. Physical activity, adequate sleep, creative outlets, supportive relationships, and stress-management techniques all contribute to emotional well-being.
• Connecting young people with support. School counselors, mental health professionals, healthcare providers, and trusted adults can provide guidance during difficult times.

Most importantly, remind young people that they are not alone. Feeling heard, valued, and supported can be a powerful protective factor during challenging times.

If you are concerned about a child or teen’s mental health, reach out for help. If a young person is in crisis, call or text 988 to connect with the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline for free, confidential support available 24 hours a day.

Prevention starts with awareness, connection, and action. Together, we can help create a safer and healthier future for all children.

STAFF DAY AWAY!

This past month, the McMahon Ryan Child Advocacy Center team took a well-deserved Staff Day Away focused on learning, growth, connection, and fun.

We started the day with a delicious potluck breakfast before participating in staff development and team-building activities designed to strengthen our skills, foster collaboration, and deepen our connections with one another. These opportunities allow us to grow both professionally and personally while continuing to provide the highest level of support to the children and families we serve.

To wrap up the day, staff enjoyed an unforgettable boat tour along the beautiful Seneca River, giving us the chance to relax, reflect, and celebrate the incredible work accomplished throughout the year.

We are grateful for opportunities like this that allow us to invest in our team, strengthen relationships, and recharge for the important work ahead. A strong and connected team is at the heart of everything we do, and we returned energized and ready to continue making a difference in the lives of children and families throughout our community.

This year, we are celebrating 5 years of service for our Victim Advocate, Keianah Greene!

Keianah began her journey at McMahon Ryan as an Administrative Assistant in 2021, but it didn’t take long for her to realize that her passion was working directly with and helping others. She made the transition to our advocate team and has continued to grow both personally and professionally throughout her time at the Center. Along the way, Keianah continued her education, earning her Master of Social Work, further expanding the knowledge and skills she brings to her work with children and families.

Keianah brings compassion, empathy and a genuine commitment to every child and family she supports. Her dedication to our clients and to ensuring they feel heard, supported and cared for is truly special.



We are so grateful for the past five years of Keianah’s service, growth and commitment to our mission. Congratulations on 5 years, Keianah! We are so lucky to have you on our team! 💙