April is widely recognized through colored ribbons, themed days, and social media campaigns.
But for those working on the front lines of child abuse prevention and sexual assault advocacy, the month represents far more than symbolic gestures. It is a reminder of how urgent, complex, and close to home these issues truly are.
In our region, Satilla Advocacy Services (SAS) serves as both a Child Advocacy Center and a Sexual Assault Center. This dual role reflects a reality advocates see daily — abuse does not fit neatly into categories, and survivors need coordinated, compassionate, and accessible services. The work is not abstract. It is local, daily, and deeply personal.
Maggie Santana of SAS was introduced by SAS Executive Director Tess Aldridge at a recent meeting of the Exchange Club of Waycross. Santana gave an update on her role with SAS and information about SAS.
Prevention Begins Before the Crisis One of the most difficult truths about prevention is it must begin long before a crisis reaches law enforcement or a courtroom. Prevention starts with education — often uncomfortable education — and conversations many adults were never taught how to have.
Today’s children live in a world shaped by constant internet access and social media. A screen is always within reach, and so are the risks that accompany it.
Advocates at SAS report a significant rise in online grooming and exploitation. Many cases begin with what appears to be harmless communication and escalate quickly.
In one recent local case, an adult male traveled from California to Georgia after grooming a child through social media.
This was not a distant headline. It happened here.
Schools Leading the Way
Despite the challenges, there is meaningful progress — much of it beginning in the classroom.
Local school systems have welcomed prevention education, allowing trained SAS staff to work with students from pre-K through college age.
These lessons are ageappropriate and practical, focusing on:
• Body safety and personal boundaries
• Internet and social media safety
• Bullying and cyberbullying awareness
• Recognizing unsafe situations
• Knowing how and where to ask for help Students also learn to identify trusted adults — parents, grandparents, teachers, coaches, or caregivers who consistently show up for them. The goal is simple — no child should feel alone or unsure where to turn.
Adults Need Education Too
While school-based programs are essential, prevention cannot stop with children. Adults play a critical role in recognizing risks and responding appropriately.
Over the past five years, Santana has delivered prevention lessons to more than 27,000 students across local counties. During that same period, Satilla Advocacy Services has reached over 38,000 community members through classes, trainings, and outreach events.
These sessions help adults understand modern risks, recognize warning signs, and create safer environments for children.
When adults are informed, children are safer.
Meeting Survivors Where They Are Access to services is another barrier SAS works to remove.
The organization serves six counties, with offices in Waycross, Douglas, Nahunta, and most recently Alma. This expansion was designed to reduce transportation challenges that often prevent survivors from seeking help.
Asking someone to travel long distances after trauma adds unnecessary burden to an already overwhelming situation.
As the only certified Child Advocacy Center and Sexual Assault Center across these counties, SAS responds to cases involving sexual abuse, physical abuse, human trafficking, neglect, drug endangerment, and children who witness violence. These are not rare incidents. They occur every day.
Community Support Matters
This work depends on strong partnerships with schools, civic groups such as the Exchange Club, volunteers, donors, and community members who understand that prevention is a shared responsibility.
Awareness events — including Wear Blue Day, survivor-centered programming at Swamp Fest, and Rev It Up — play an important role. They create opportunities for education, dialogue, and action.
More Than a Month April will end, but the need for prevention will not.
Child abuse and sexual assault are ongoing realities that require ongoing response. Education, awareness, and advocacy must continue throughout the year.
Prevention requires courage, honesty, and a community willing to say, “We will not look away. We will learn. We will protect our children and support survivors.”
Prevention is not just a program. It is a promise.
To learn more or to volunteer with Satilla Advocacy Services, visit: http://satillaadvocacyservices. com
