October’s Message from our President and CEO

As October brings its cooler winds and vibrant colors, I find myself reflecting on the warmth and kindness of a person who has deeply inspired so many of us: SuEllen Fried. For over 50 years, SuEllen was not just a beloved lifetime member of our Prevent Child Abuse America family—she was a true guiding light for thousands of people across the country inspired by her work in child welfare, anti-bullying education, and prison reform. Her unshakeable belief in the power of kindness continues to fuel our commitment to a safer, more supportive world for families. I encourage you to honor her legacy by advocating for family- centered policies, volunteering your time, or making a donation. Every action is a tribute to her life’s work of building a world where kindness prevails.

SuEllen had a beautiful way of spreading kindness wherever she went. She loved to wear a “Power of Kindness” pin and would pass it along to anyone she saw doing something kind. It was her daily way of making the world a better place. We hope that you will join us in recognizing and spreading kindness. To learn more about how you can contribute to our mission, please visit: A Tribute to SuEllen Fried.

This month also brings us closer to the 2024 elections. The stakes for families and children have never been higher. Voting isn’t just a civic duty, it’s also an opportunity to help shape the future for families’ generations to come. I invite you to explore our 2024 Election Guide, which highlights the critical policies and issues impacting children and families across the country. Together, our votes and voices can help ensure that all children can grow up healthy, safe, and supported.

Finally, I’m thrilled to welcome our newest board members: Michael Axelrod, Lynnwood Bibbens, Ramya Venkat Parekh, Robert Rotondi, and Kalen Thornton. Each of them brings a wealth of knowledge and a passion for preventing child abuse. Their contributions will be invaluable as we continue our mission. You can learn more about their stories by visiting: Our Team

Thank you, as always, for standing with us in this work of love. Together, we can create lasting change for children and families everywhere.

With heartfelt gratitude,

Dr. Melissa Merrick
President and CEO, PCA America