Media Release

June 19, 2008

Child Abuse Council Moving, Growing and Speaking Up

Hamilton – The Community Child Abuse Council, based in Hamilton, will officially open its doors at a new and larger location on Tuesday as part of an ambitious plan to enhance services and reach out with community awareness efforts. Long housed in shared space downtown, the agency has been growing and venturing into bolder initiatives, including a new awareness campaign that will be unveiled at Tuesday’s grand opening event.

The agency’s Board President, Rocco Gizzarelli, says it’s a double celebration the Council is very proud of. “We have been working very hard, and on June 24 we will mark two milestones together as we officially open our new location and launch an exciting campaign. It’s the start of a very important time in our history”.

Local recording artist and past Canadian Idol winner, Brian Melo, will be named Honourary Campaign Chair at the event on Tuesday. “This is something that’s very important to me,” says Melo. “I’m from a very loving family, and I realize I’ve been very fortunate. I want to help make a difference for kids who haven’t had it so good. I’m looking forward to making a contribution here in Hamilton. If I can inspire one kid to dream, to achieve, to know they are not alone…what more could I ask?”

Guests at the by-invitation-only event will include a who’s who of local business and community leaders. Local TV anchor, Dan McLean, of CHCH Hamilton, will officially launch the awareness campaign. McLean has been a long-time supporter of the Council and Ride Chair for its annual CAPPY motorcycle ride.

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The Council will seal a time capsule at Tuesday’s event, to be opened in 2058, containing items reflecting both the current realities of child abuse and the goals the agency hopes to achieve in coming years. Guests at the event will sign a declaration to be included in the time capsule.

The Council provides comprehensive assessment and treatment services for child and youth victims of sexual abuse and for their non-offending parents/ caregivers, trauma services for children and youth from immigrant and refugee families, and a range of prevention and education programs that focus on keeping kids safe. Serving the Greater Hamilton and surrounding area, services are provided by highly qualified professional staff in a safe, comfortable, accessible, confidential and supportive environment.

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Community Child Abuse Council (905) 523-1020 extension 11