CHILLICOTHE, Ohio – The Child Protection Center of Ross County officially announced its name change to The Garden Family Advocacy Center. Since its inception in 1996, the center has provided essential services to children who have experienced sexual and physical abuse in Ross County. The decision to rebrand comes after the Board of Directors and Executive Director Rhiannon Gill recognized the need for the center’s name to reflect its broader mission of serving not only children but also their non-offending family members.
Initially established to serve only Ross County, the center’s services have expanded into surrounding counties over the years. The new name is intended to better reflect this growth and the comprehensive services offered, which include child abuse assessments, prevention education, and family support. The center frequently provides assessments through referrals from law enforcement, child protective services, and medical professionals.
Executive Director Rhiannon Gill explained the reasoning behind the name change: “The key to systemic change is through children. The more positive adult interaction a child has, the greater the possibility that the trauma a child has endured can be overcome. It is our duty as a child advocacy center to help reduce trauma and promote healthy families.”
The Garden Family Advocacy Center now embraces a multi-disciplinary approach to healing, based on the standards of the National Children’s Alliance. By fostering an environment where children and families can heal and thrive, the center aims to reduce the trauma caused by abuse and promote resilience and well-being.
In addition to offering abuse assessments for children affected by physical abuse, sexual abuse, neglect, and human trafficking, the center also provides prevention education to local schools and professionals who work with children, court-ordered supervised visitation, and therapy for children in need.
The Garden Family Advocacy Center is funded by The United Way, The National Children’s Alliance, Victims of Crime, The Ohio Attorney General’s Office, the Ohio Network of Child Advocacy Centers, the Ohio Children’s Trust Fund, Appalachian Children’s Coalition, and other local grants and private donations.
For more information or to inquire about services, contact Rhiannon Gill at 740-779-7431. The Garden Family Advocacy Center is located at 138 Marietta Rd, Ste E, Chillicothe, Ohio.