Iowa State University Extension

Problem:
Over 3 million reports of child abuse are made each year in the U.S. According to Prevent Child Abuse American, the U.S. spends an estimated $258,000,000 each day in direct and indirect costs in response to child abuse. In Iowa confirmed child abuse has risen 9.8% over the years 2001-2006. Over 47% of the confirmed 14,042 children abused in 2006 were birth to 5 years old. Child abuse affects individuals, families and communities. Multi-faceted programming is needed at the national, state and local level to address this complex issue.

Response:
Decatur County professionals and lay people organized a child abuse prevention council in 1985. Positive Parenting, Inc. operated with a part-time coordinator working out of her home. She provided parent education, sexual abuse prevention education, home visiting program for new parents, and a young parents support group. The funding was $1,122.50. Donna Donald, family life field specialist joined the council in 1992. At that point it had very few members and provided limited programming. She assumed the position of treasurer in 1997 and held it until June 30, 2007. Mrs. Donald was the one constant figure who kept the council in operation through lean years. She was instrumental in nurturing the council through numerous employees, programs, state audit and major growth. Mrs. Donald co-wrote the grants and provided support and supervision for the coordinator. The Decatur County Extension Office contributed secretarial support and access to equipment. Mrs. Donald encouraged professional development for the executive director and employees. The executive director completed the Partnering with Parents Academy . She and other employees were trained as facilitators for the Strengthening Families Program and Celebrate Families Program. In 1995, Positive Parenting reached out to adjoining Wayne and Ringgold counties to provide sexual abuse prevention programming. Both counties became fully involved with Positive Parenting, Inc. with council representation, increased programming and funding in 2000. In 2004 Clarke County was the 4th county added to the service area. Positive Parenting, Inc. now focuses primarily on parent education and sexual abuse prevention education.

Impact:
Mrs. Donald completed 15 years of direct council involvement June 30, 2007. She left a thriving 4-county council currently receiving over $150,000 to provide child abuse prevention services to 5,300 children and 15,500 adults. There is a staff of five employees, CPA (contracted) and a modern office. Positive Parenting, Inc. has in place updated by-laws, job descriptions, structured board of directors, employee policies and procedures, financial policies including checks and balances, fundraising strategies and a public web site. It is an organization well positioned to offer valuable services in child abuse prevention for Decatur, Ringgold, Wayne and Clarke counties.

Contact:
Donna Donald
Decatur County Extension
309 N. Main
Leon, IA 50144
641-446-4723
ddonald@iastate.edu