Child Advocacy Center of Wayne County Dedication

Remarks from Senator Helming at the dedication of the new Child Advocacy Center of Wayne County

Congratulations to everyone involved in making the Child Advocacy Center a reality for the people of Wayne County. 

The opening of the Center is great resource for our community. And it is definitely worth celebrating. 

It’s also an important reminder for all of us that children continue to suffer from abuse and neglect and they need our help. 

Having this local, child-friendly facility where victims may be interviewed and receive services in a safe environment is a positive step forward in the healing process for these children. 

The Child Advocacy Center of Wayne County has been a dream of many people. 

With grant funding from New York State, and the amazing teamwork of local leaders and private citizens, today this dream becomes a reality. 

Congratulations to Social Services Commissioner Dr. Ellen Wayne, Deputy Commissioner and Director of Social Services Shelly Bentley, Wayne County Board of Supervisors Chairman Ken Miller, County Administrator Rick House, and Executive Director of the Land Bank Mark Humbert.

Thank you for your leadership, your initiative and of course, your execution. This Center is a testament to what can be done when people are committed to achieving a common goal.

This project is also a great example of the power of public-private partnerships. 

I’d like to thank a very special citizen who has been instrumental in so many positive projects in our communities. That is Mr. Bob Ohmann. 

Bob, when I heard you were instrumental in the creation of the Center, I was not surprised. You have been there whenever a need arises in the community.

Whether it’s the Ohmann Theatre, Lyons Community Center, youth sports, or collegiate baseball. If Wayne County needs it, Bob Ohmann delivers it.

It’s especially touching that this home was actually your childhood home. The place where you grew up.  And furthermore, it is my understanding that your dear mother, Mary was one of the county’s first child abuse investigators. 

Thank you for once again for stepping up and delivering for the people. You are a true humanitarian. 

On behalf of the state of New York, I thank you, Bob. And I thank everyone who had a part in creating this Center.