OTC emphaizes the need to promote programs, activities

By Tom Hintgen

Otter Tail County Correspondent

The Otter Tail County Board of Commissioners has proclaimed April 2023 as National Child Abuse Prevention Month in Otter Tail County.

The five-person county board called upon all county residents, community agencies, religious organizations, medical facilities and businesses to recognize this month by dedication to the task of improving the quality of life for all children and families. 

“Child abuse and neglect is a serious problem affecting every segment of our society, including here in Otter Tail County,” notes County Board Chairman Wayne Johnson of Pelican Rapids.

Johnson and the other four county commissioners (Dan Bucholz of rural Perham, Bob Lahman of Parkers Prairie, Kurt Mortenson of rural Underwood and Lee Rogness of Fergus Falls) emphasize that prevention of child abuse in Otter Tail County requires input and action from everyone throughout the county.

“Child abuse prevention succeeds because of partnerships created between families, child welfare professionals, the educational community, health care employees, faith-based organizations, businesses and law enforcement agencies,” said Board Chairman Johnson.

County board members emphasize the need to promote programs and activities that create strong and thriving children and families.

As a group, county board members said, “We acknowledge that we must work together as a county to increase awareness about child abuse and contribute to promote the social and emotional well-being of children and families in safe, stable and nurturing environments. Prevention remains the best defense for our children and families.”