Personal Safety Awareness Program — Horizons Mental Health Center

For more than four decades, the Personal Safety Awareness Program (PSAP) has been a cornerstone of child abuse prevention in Reno County. Delivered by Horizons Mental Health Center’s Child Advocacy Center (CAC), the program empowers children to recognize, resist, and report abuse—giving them a voice and the confidence to seek help when they need it most.

Since its creation 41 years ago, PSAP has reached thousands of local students in first, second, and fourth grades through engaging, age-appropriate lessons focused on safety, body boundaries, and respect. Each session is presented by a collaborative team of law enforcement officers, teachers, and CAC staff who work together to ensure children understand that their bodies belong to them—and that it’s always okay to tell a trusted adult if someone makes them feel uncomfortable or unsafe.

“The Personal Safety Awareness Program equips children with knowledge and confidence,” said Jane Holzrichter, Director of the Child Advocacy Center. “When kids know what’s right and what’s not, they’re far more likely to speak up. Prevention starts with education.”

In the coming year, Horizons anticipates reaching more than 1,600 youth across Reno County through PSAP—bringing vital education and prevention resources to classrooms throughout the community.

The program continues to evolve to meet the changing needs of children today. In addition to teaching personal safety and abuse prevention, PSAP now includes lessons on online safety, helping students recognize inappropriate digital interactions and protect their personal information in an increasingly connected world.

The program also plays a vital role in equipping adults with the tools to respond appropriately when a child discloses abuse. Horizons provides ongoing education for teachers, parents, and community professionals, ensuring that every adult in a child’s life can be a safe and supportive advocate.

Each year, schools across Reno County partner with Horizons to make PSAP possible. Participation is free for students, and districts even help fund substitute teachers so educators can attend the required training sessions. This collaboration underscores a shared community commitment to keeping children safe.

Through funding from United Way of Reno County, PSAP continues to grow and strengthen its reach. United Way’s investment supports program delivery, materials, and staff training—ensuring that every child, regardless of background or school district, has access to critical abuse-prevention education.

“United Way’s partnership helps ensure this program remains available to every elementary student in Reno County,” said Holzrichter. “Together, we’re creating safer environments for children and empowering them to thrive.”

PSAP is just one example of how United Way-funded programs are creating lasting change by focusing on prevention, education, and community collaboration. Each child who learns these safety skills represents a stronger, safer future for Reno County.

To learn more about the Personal Safety Awareness Program or Horizons Mental Health Center’s Child Advocacy Center, visit childsexualabuseprograms.com

.