Andy Bernert, Kids on the Block Prevention Specialist, at Family Nurturing Center (Photo from Family Nurturing Center)
Family Nurturing Center has received a $7,500 grant from the Elsa Heisel Sule Foundation to further its mission to end the cycle of child abuse. Grant funds will go specifically to supports the school-based child abuse prevention program Kids on the Block.
The Kids on the Block program uses life-sized puppets who share their stories and experiences in age-appropriate ways to help children become equipped with the skills they need to recognize and report child abuse. Kids on the Block is a research-based, proven prevention strategy that is utilized in numerous elementary schools, pre-schools and community-based settings across Northern Kentucky including Boone, Kenton, Campbell and Grant counties.
Kids on the Block puppets (left to right) Joanne, Stephen, Nam (Photo from Family Nurturing Center)
Puppeteers who are extensively trained in child abuse education and prevention bring the puppets to life and provide non-threatening, factual information, help dispel myths, and offer resources. Both the Child Abuse Prevention skit and the Bullying and School Safety skit take difficult information and provide it in an entertaining way that encourages dialogue and can lead to deeper understanding. Children leave the performance feeling empowered and strengthened.
“We are working hard to end the cycle of child abuse and we know that education and prevention are key components. By offering prevention programs like Kids on the Block , we can equip children with vital skills they need to recognize and report abuse,” said Jane Herms, Family Nurturing Center president and CEO. “Kids on the Block reaches over 10,000 school-age children each year so its impact is felt broadly across our community. We are very grateful to receive this grant from the Elsa Heisel Sule Foundation and we appreciate their investment in our work to help create a safe and nurturing environment for our kids.”
The Elsa Heisel Sule Foundation was established by Northern Kentuckian, Elsa Heisel Sule in 2004.
“Elsa believed it was essential to make sure children were safe and thriving,” said foundation trustee and CEO, Ruth Klette “The Kids on the Block program provides children with essential educational demonstrations and stories that enable them to better communicate their needs. All children should have a safe, secure and nurturing childhood.”
Family Nurturing Center
