New training aims to prevent child sexual abuse

Great Rivers United Way awarded New Horizons Shelter and Outreach Centers more $4,360 in grant money Wednesday to help provide new training to prevent, recognize, and react to child sexual abuse.

That training is part of a nationally recognized program called Stewards of Children.

“We’re working really hard in the community on adverse child experiences and creating resilience,” Liz Evans, United Way Community Impact Director, said. “One other part of that work is breaking the cycle.”

The award is one of nine Venture Grants United Way is distributing.

New Horizons Shelter and Outreach Center is a nonprofit that helps adults and families who have experienced domestic and sexual abuse.

Ann Kappauf, New Horizons executive director, said the training is something that could not be offered without the grant.

“Many of our other funding grants wouldn’t allow us to do this,” Kappauf said. “This training is relevant for every adult.”

The Venture Grant will combine with a larger Victims of Crime grant, allowing New Horizons to host eight child sexual abuse prevention trainings in La Crosse and Trempealeau counties.