In 1987 Cass County established a Child Abuse Prevention Council (CAPC) with a dual purpose:
· to develop programs to reduce the incidence of child abuse in Cass County
· to promote the healthy development of children and families.

During 1995 the CAPC developed a relationship and merged with the Cass County/Leech Lake Reservation Children's Initiative. The mission of the Cass County/Leech Lake Reservation Children's Initiative is to assist communities in building strong families. The Initiative supports a network of community family councils that support community-based programming for families in the areas of healthy development and the prevention of child abuse and other forms of violence. These family councils are working to expand resources to parents such as support groups, classes, activities, educational materials, and access to needed services.

Radiothon earnings in 2000 supported programming in all five school districts in the county through family centers, Leech Lake Reservation Social Services, and Cass County Social Services in each of these communities. Proceeds from the 2001 Radiothon will be used to expand opportunities for families in their local communities.

Shana Kranz, Director
Cass County/Leech Lake Reservation Children's Initative
PO Box 11
Pine River MN 56474
218-589-5449