CenClear to Host Carnivals for Child Abuse Prevention Month
During the month of April which is nationally recognized as Child Abuse Prevention month, CenClear will mark the occasion by holding three carnival events, and the public is invited to both attend and participate.
On April 5th, the first carnival will be held at CenClear’s Philipsburg Preschool Center, located at 1955 Philipsburg Bigler Hwy, Philipsburg.
On April 26th, there will be events at CenClear’s St. Mary’s Preschool Center, located at 429 North St Mary’s Street, St. Mary’s, as well as at the CPI Center located at 550 North Harrison Road, Pleasant Gap.
These carnivals will each be held from 11:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. and will be completely free for participants.
“The carnivals provide families with the opportunity to spend quality time together while also discovering information about the wealth of resources available in local communities,” according to a press release..
There will be games, costume characters, tasty treats, resourceful information, and prizes which are available at no cost to families.
CenClear invites agencies and volunteers to participate at each event.
Some of the already confirmed participants are Kirby and Drago, both local therapy dogs, the Child Advocacy Centers of Clearfield and McKean Counties, local first responders, local scouting troops, AmeriHealth, Centre Safe, Alliance for Nonprofit Resources, Community to Home Program, Black Moshannon, Centre County 4-H, Child Youth and Family Services, Dickinson Center, Beacon Light, and the Boys and Girls Club of St Mary’s.
Those interested in participating as an agency should email mstrouse@cenclear.org no later than March 14, 2025. Each agency is asked to bring some kind of free game, craft, or activity they can share with families, as well as promotional resources.
“Child abuse is 100% preventable,” shares Mason Strouse, Family and Community Partnership Director with CenClear.
“These carnivals provide an incredible opportunity for families to come together, have some fun, and learn about the resources available to them in their local communities.”
CenClear offers preschool programs in Clearfield, Centre and Elk Counties. Classes available vary based on location and the funding source.
Preschool is a chance for children 3-5 years old to make friends, explore the world around them and learn through hands on activities, according to their website.
The students socialize, paint, play games, color and sing all while developing the skills they will need in kindergarten and for life-long learning.
In addition to learning through play, these children enjoy healthy meals or snacks while also learning about the importance of eating nutritious foods.
“Our staff are professionals that receive continuous supervision, coaching and professional development opportunities throughout their employment. Staff wellness is an important part of CenClear and by supporting our staff, we are supporting your family,” the website states.