What it means to create a ‘Circle of Safety’

September 6, 2022

With the Circle of Safety Fundraising Breakfast quickly approaching, we think it’s important that everyone knows why we hold this event so close to our hearts.

First, why the name “Circle of Safety”?

This name alludes to the goal of the event, which is to create a space where children and families are provided with wraparound services to meet all of their needs during their time with Sunflower House. We aim to provide a single, fact-finding interview alongside members of a Multi-Disciplinary Team of law enforcement and other professionals, therapy for children and families, and we can assist with accessing other necessities such as medical services or school supplies.

We have also taught children to identify their “Circle of Safety,” which is their group of safe adults who can be trusted when that child needs the assistance of an adult. This may include a school resource officer, teacher, parent, doctor, or guidance counselor. When children identify their circle of safe adults before a dangerous situation occurs, they are able to disclose and receive assistance as quickly as possible following an instance of abuse. It is critical that children understand who a safe adult is, as we may be able to prevent abuse before it occurs by ensuring that children understand who in their lives should be trusted with what. While this cannot prevent all cases of abuse and maltreatment, it can help us as a community take preventative steps to help children before abuse occurs.

Now, why is it so important to have a circle of safety?

Sunflower House plays a unique role in the communities of Johnson and Wyandotte counties. We are the only child advocacy center in both counties, and one of only 16 in the state of Kansas. This places the responsibility of child advocacy in our community on Sunflower House. While there are many other great organizations providing assistance for families and children in other ways, Sunflower House is the only child advocacy center in these counties providing specialized forensic interviews, medical referrals, family advocacy, various methods of therapy, and more. However, creating this circle of safety in our community is not easy. Interviews and therapy are provided with no out-of-pocket cost to children and families, which means we need consistent support from our community. The Circle of Safety Breakfast invites attendees to join the Petals of Promise monthly donors, or the Circle of Safety Giving Society. Both of these contribution types make a great difference in the services and care we are able to provide to our clients.

To attend the Circle of Safety Breakfast, RSVP here.