Missouri Department of Social Services and Missouri Network Against Child Abuse Promote New Facilitators in Stewards of Children Training

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: April 2, 2025

CONTACT: Baylee.Watts@dss.mo.gov

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. - The Missouri Department of Social Services (DSS) Children's Division (CD) in partnership with Missouri Network Against Child Abuse (MO NACA)is proud to announce the successful training of 17 new Authorized Facilitators for the Stewards of Childrentraining program. These dedicated individuals, all Specialists from CD, bring invaluable experience and a deep commitment to child abuse prevention to our growing network.

"We are thrilled that CD team members have taken the steps to become facilitators for this incredibly important training" said Sara Smith, DSS CD Director. "Their commitment and expertise play a crucial role in our mission to protect children's well-being throughout Missouri. By empowering more adults with the skills to prevent and address child abuse, we are making meaningful progress toward establishing safer communities for our children."

The Stewards of Children training, developed by Darkness to Light , stands as one of the only evidence-informed, adult-focused child sexual abuse prevention training initiatives in the United States. This acclaimed program is designed to enhance knowledge and inspire behavioral change among adults, equipping them with the tools necessary to prevent, recognize, and respond appropriately to child sexual abuse. By incorporating insights from individuals with lived experiences, experts, and treatment providers, Stewards of Children empowers adults with practical strategies to reduce instances of abuse within organizations, families, and communities.

As the central support hub for the Missouri Stewards of Children Authorized Facilitator Network, MO-NACA plays a crucial role in fostering resource-sharing, mutual support, and strategic planning among facilitators. This collaborative network, now strengthened by our recent trainees, includes nearly 100 authorized facilitators from child advocacy centers, child abuse multidisciplinary teams, public health sectors, and other child-serving organizations across the state.

" We are thrilled to have these passionate professionals join our network. Their expertise and dedication are vital to advancing our mission of empowering adults with solutions to support the safety of children throughout Missouri, " said Jessica Seitz, Executive Director of MO-NACA.

For more information about the Stewards of Children training visit MO NACA's website at mo-naca.org/training/stewards-of-children/ .

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