Many of my friends and colleagues know that I was sexually abused when I was a little boy.
I share my story freely and often—in the hope that it will either prevent sexual abuse by making a parent more aware of the risk or will help a fellow survivor know that they are not alone.
I want people to know that there can be hope and healing after sexual abuse. Here's what that can look like:
Family, fun, food! Those are some of the ways I enjoy life as someone who has overcome much of the trauma of abuse—can you tell I have a sense of humor?
I'm proud to sit on the Board of Directors at PennCAC and am pleased to help promote the work of Children's Advocacy Centers in our state.
There are 41 Children's Advocacy Centers in our state that coordinate a child-friendly and collaborative response to abuse and ensure that families have the support and resources they need to heal from trauma. The purpose of PennCAC’s SHINE campaign is to raise awareness in the community about child sexual abuse and reach out to support victims and survivors. Want to learn more?
- Read about CACs and SHINE at PennLIVE this month as we work to raise awareness this month about child sexual abuse
- Take a 360 virtual tour of a CAC to see for yourself the difference it can make for children experiencing abuse.
Would you consider a donation to this year's SHINE Walk?
Your financial support will help us strengthen existing CACs and work to develop new centers where there are none yet available for children.
Thank you for considering this worthy cause. You can make an online donation right here on my personal fundraising page, or mail a check and include a note "SHINE—Jim Mandes" to:
Children's Advocacy Centers of Pennsylvania
2101 N Front St / Governor's Plaza North, Bldg 2 / Harrisburg, PA 17110
Jim Mandes
Krone North AmericaNorthern Region Sales Manager
901.574.1167
