In 1978, Marilyn Anderson, Child Protective Supervisor for York County, was invited to speak to a group at the Congregational Church in Saco. Marilyn described the plight of some youngsters in York County and aroused the concern of several listeners. At their urging, a group of these people and other members of the social service professional community began meeting on a regular basis. Although attendance continued to change at each meeting, there was a core group of seven individuals that began the Council. In August 1980, the York County Child Abuse and Neglect Council became incorporated. The main focus has been in the schools to let children know that child abuse is never their fault and to tell a trusted adult if they are being abused and for all professionals to understand their role as mandated reporters. Over the years, programming has expanded to include the nationally recognized Nurturing Parenting Program for families, Circle of Security Parenting and school programs that include Healthy Relationships Project and Personal Body Safety.
