From the Deputy Director's Desk:
During this month when the world focuses on love, we’re highlighting the love that we have for our generous donors and the love they share for the children we serve. This season reminds us of care and connection in all its forms, and we especially want to commend our donors who share our commitment to care for child abuse victims. Be sure to follow us on Facebook and Instagram as we send out “love letters” to our donors in the coming weeks, celebrating the contributions of our supporters.
With love being the theme of the month, we also draw attention to the importance of healthy expressions of love during Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month this February. Each year, Love Is Respect shares resources to help educate teens, young adults and their loved ones about healthy and unhealthy dating relationships and how to recognize dating abuse. They also provide 24/7 confidential support for teens and young adults seeking help; they are available by text: “LOVEIS” to 22522, by phone: 866-331-9474, or live chat online.
With your help, we are building a future where every child knows safety and compassion, and where young people understand that love should always be healthy and respectful. Thank you for being part of this mission. Your support makes all the difference, and your love for child abuse victims changes lives.
With gratitude,
Beth Pulito, Deputy Director
What's New?
The Amani Center is thrilled to invite you to our “Día del Niño” celebration this April!
Día del Niño, or Children’s Day, is observed around the world and celebrated on April 30th in Mexico and many Latin American countries as a day dedicated to honoring children. And to close out Child Abuse Awareness Month this April, we couldn’t imagine a better way to end the month than by throwing a big party for kids!
📅 FREE Día del Niño Children’s Fair, Thursday, April 30
5:00–8:00 p.m. | Buccini Hall, St. Helens
Children and families will enjoy:
• Delicious free food
• Exciting children’s activities
• Prizes and fun for kids of all ages!
Spread the word, bring your family, and let’s celebrate our community’s kids together!
February Spotlight:
We are happy to announce that the Amani Center team has expanded! We recently welcomed two new staff members:
• Jeremy, Custodian of Medical Records
• Sabata, HR Generalist
The increased need for Amani Center services has created a season of growth for us as we work to serve the children and families who rely on our support. As we continue to meet these needs as Columbia County’s only Child Abuse Assessment Center, we are thrilled to have Jeremy and Sabata joining us in our mission to give child abuse victims a voice.
In the coming months, we’ll feature some of our newer staff members and give them an opportunity to share a bit more about themselves and their roles here at Amani. Keep an eye out for upcoming newsletters and on our social media for a chance to get to know our staff better.
Upcoming Events:
Saturday, April 25 – Race Against Child Abuse
Lace up your running shoes and tie on your superhero cape for this year’s Race Against Child Abuse! Join in our fun superhero theme by dressing up in your best and brightest superhero gear to “be a hero for kids” at this year’s race! Invite your friends, family, and coworkers to start training now for the 2026 Race Against Child Abuse. Whether you’re a seasoned marathoner, a weekend jogger, or just looking for a meaningful stroll with the family, there’s a place for you here. Choose your challenge: conquer the 10K, breeze through the 5K, enjoy the 1 Mile Family Fun Walk, create your own virtual race, or select ‘Sweet Dreams’ and sleep in for the cause. Use our special “early bird” discount code through midnight on Valentine’s Day for 20% off when you register: EARLYBIRD26.
Thank you to the Race Against Child Abuse Elite Sponsor, Wauna Credit Union! Also, a special thanks to Crooked Creek Brewery, the Official Timing Sponsor of the race.
Thursday, April 30 – Día del Niño Celebration
The Amani Center invites children and families to the FREE Día del Niño Celebration on Thursday, April 30th. Come enjoy this free children’s fair at Buccini Hall in St. Helens from 5:00-8:00 p.m. with delicious food, fun activities, and prizes for kids of all ages. Let’s celebrate our community’s kids together at this fun Children’s Day party!