Clarksville Unites for Child Abuse Prevention

In a meaningful display of unity and purpose, the Clarksville community gathered to recognize Child Abuse Prevention Month with an official proclamation signing—an event that highlighted both the realities of child abuse and the shared responsibility to not only respond, but to prevent it.

Hosted by Project Community of Johnson and Franklin Counties, and facilitated by the River Valley Child Advocacy Center, the event brought together advocates, DCFS, law enforcement, and community leaders committed to protecting children and strengthening families across the region.

Kerry, County Coordinator for Johnson and Franklin Counties, opened the gathering with heartfelt thanks. She expressed gratitude to those in attendance for supporting children who cannot advocate for themselves, as well as the professionals who step into that role every day. Her remarks emphasized that while reactive services are critical, true impact happens when communities come together to support families before crises occur.

Through initiatives like 100 Families and Smart Justice Services, Project Community works to reduce the vulnerabilities that often lead to child abuse—addressing barriers such as poverty, addiction, unstable housing, and lack of access to resources. By walking alongside families, connecting them to support systems, and promoting accountability and stability, these programs aim to create environments where children are safe, supported, and able to thrive.

At the heart of this work is a shared vision: breaking generational cycles of poverty, addiction, and abuse. Prevention is not a single program or agency—it is a collaborative effort rooted in relationships, early intervention, and community-wide commitment.

That message was carried forward by Diamond Brockett, a full-time forensic interviewer with the River Valley Child Advocacy Center, who spoke with both professional insight and personal conviction. Sharing her own story of being born into addiction and enduring sexual, mental, and physical abuse, Brockett offered a deeply human perspective on the work she now does.

She explained that her experiences allow her to connect with the children she interviews on a profound level—helping them feel seen, heard, and safe.

“I’m working a lot of hours and it’s very hard, but it’s worth it,” Brockett said. “I’m very thankful for this community and for Johnson County, as well as our close relationship with local law enforcement.”

The need for that work remains significant. Over the past year, Johnson County received 304 referrals through the child abuse hotline, including 76 Priority 1 cases—the most severe forms of maltreatment—and 230 Priority 2 referrals. Currently, 36 children are in foster care within the county, despite there being only one traditional foster home and two adopt-only homes locally, alongside several kinship placements.

These numbers underscore the critical role of the Department of Child and Family Services (DCFS), whose work is essential in ensuring the safety and well-being of children in the community. From responding to hotline calls to coordinating foster placements and providing ongoing support, DCFS remains a vital line of defense for vulnerable children—often stepping in during the most difficult moments.

Brockett also shared the scope of the advocacy center’s work. In the last year alone, Johnson County saw 115 cases, with the Clarksville center serving 212 children. Brockett herself has conducted more than 400 forensic interviews since starting in 2023—each one representing a child bravely telling their story.

She noted that recent funding cuts have resulted in the loss of a staff position and reduced coverage in some areas. Even so, the center continues its mission, relying on strong partnerships with organizations like 100 Families and Smart Justice Services to help ensure families are supported beyond the initial response. Through collaboration with community partners, needs can be identified early and families can be connected to resources that can assist in stability and reduce risk factors.

Gaston Griggs, Chief of Police in Lamar and an investigator with the advocacy center, reflected on how far the county has come. Before a local center existed, accessing services was far more complicated for victims and their families.

Today, he says, the difference is profound.

“The River Valley Child Advocacy Center goes the extra mile for every victim,” Griggs said. “Day or night, it’s never mattered. They’re always there.”

Griggs spoke candidly about the emotional weight carried by those in this field. Both law enforcement officers, child advocates, and social workers often take these cases home with them, knowing the impact they have on real lives.

“Law enforcement couldn’t do what we do without y’all, and we are forever grateful,” he added. “Thank you for everything you do.”

Brockett also emphasized the importance of having a neutral, child-friendly environment for forensic interviews. Without a dedicated center, children may be forced to speak in intimidating settings—sometimes even in front of their abusers—or face judgment from peers. The advocacy center provides a safe space where children can share their experiences without fear, ensuring their voices are heard with care and compassion.

Clarksville Mayor David Rieder concluded the event by reflecting on the pride he feels when speaking about Johnson County beyond its borders. He noted that the work being done by the advocacy center and its partners not only supports individual victims but also strengthens the safety and well-being of the entire community.

After reading the official proclamation aloud, Mayor Rieder signed it in front of those gathered, formally recognizing Child Abuse Prevention Month in Clarksville. The proclamation called on all citizens to work together—not only to respond to abuse, but to prevent it by supporting families, strengthening communities, and remaining vigilant in protecting children.

As the event came to a close, Brockett left attendees with a powerful and sobering reminder:

“When kids talk about monsters, take it seriously. Those monsters might be people.”

It was a call not just to listen—but to act. In Clarksville, that call is being answered not only through intervention, but through intentional, proactive efforts to strengthen families, reduce vulnerabilities, and create a future where fewer children ever need those critical services in the first place.