How a Tulsa leader uses her life experience to prevent childhood abuse and neglect

April raises awareness for child abuse prevention. The Parent Child Center in Tulsa knows that stories and knowledge can save children before abuse happens. The organization's leader knows their resources work because she lived it.  

Child abuse prevention takes collective effort 

For Melanie Anderegg, childhood stories flourish when someone walks with them on their journey. She said child abuse issues take a collective effort to solve. 

“It’s a community issue,” Anderegg said. “It’s not an individual or family issue.” 

Nonprofits offer treatment resources and advocate for children 

Anderegg serves as the chief executive officer of the Parent Child Center of Tulsa.  

 “Our mission is to prevent child abuse and neglect,” Anderegg said. "Prevention of child abuse and neglect is all about truly educating people.” 

Oklahoma is one of the worst states for child abuse 

Data from Anderegg’s office shows Oklahoma consistently in the top five states for the highest child abuse and neglect rates.   

“Typically, abuse is multigenerational,” Anderegg said. “We’re really trying to break that cycle. “The largest risk factor is parental substance abuse.” 

Melanie Anderegg’s story 

Anderegg is a survivor of childhood domestic violence. 

“For me, it’s equally personal,” Anderegg said. “There was substance abuse involved. There was domestic violence. I was kicked out when I was thirteen years old.” 

She was pregnant by the time she was 17 years old, and she found support through a home visiting program. 

“That home visitor – I worked with her for two years and from the time I was six months pregnant ‘til my son was a year and a half old. I can tell you she reinstilled hope in me.” 

She carries hope with her, and she shares it with others. 

“I went back and got my GED. I went to college,” Anderegg said. “I know these services work.” 

Parent-Child Center of Tulsa’s impact on families 

Anderegg’s life came full circle when she became the leader of the services that saved her life. 

“How do I give back and help others?” Anderegg said. “Giving each of those children a voice.” 

She healed herself so she could help children write their own stories where “love” is the main character.  

“Every child deserves to have a nurturing, loving home life in which they can thrive,” Anderegg said. 

Statewide child abuse awareness at the Capitol 

State representatives adopted a resolution this week to officially recognize April as Child Abuse Awareness Month in Oklahoma. 

RELATED COVERAGE:

1. Understanding and Preventing Child Abuse: Resources, signs, and support
2. State Guidelines: Reporting child abuse and neglect in Oklahoma