Debbie Mahoney, founder of Safeguarding Our Children-United Mothers, on the Yell and Tell child abuse prevention educational program and the importance of having an emotionally healthy child.

Message from the Founder of SOC-UM

SOC-UM believes every community has an obligation to protect and educate its youngest citizens. Furthermore, it is agreed by health professionals that an emotionally healthy child stands a better chance of becoming an emotionally healthy adult. Break the Silence, by Arnold Shapiro Productions, in combination with the presentation Yell and Tell, is designed to educate children on methods to break the cycle of abuse.

Yell and Tell was created by Rebecca Mahoney, MA, in 1984. Ms. Mahoney was honored by the Jay County Public Library, Indiana Library Trustees Associations, as well as a reception at the Indiana Governor's mansion for promotion of children's services and the creation of the Yell and Tell program. Today Ms. Mahoney resides in the state of Arkansas with her family. She continues to promote children's awareness and is specializing in children's counseling.

Janiece Hopper, an elementary grade teacher, language development specialist, and SOC-UM's Director of Education, adapted and expanded Yell and Tell for classroom education. Ms. Hopper's experience with primary grade children, as well as her professional teaching background has made this program comfortable for any classroom setting. Ms. Hopper currently lives in Snohomish, Washington with her husband and two sons.

SOC-UM would like to acknowledge Arnold Shapiro Productions for allowing the use of Break the Silence in our child wellness program.

Debbie Mahoney, Founder
SOC-UM

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