Northwestern SWAT Supports Awareness Through Wooden Children Project

May 5, 2025

Northwestern SWAT members “fostered” two Wooden Children during The Care Campus’s 2025 Wooden Children Project. Pictured are (left to right) Maureen Torres, Mona Henos, Lorina Jibas, Anna Lara, Haylee Sellers, James Fanning, Lizbeth Lopez, Emey Lopez and Codi Harding, assistant professor of social work and SWAT sponsor.

In honor of National Child Abuse Prevention Month, the Northwestern Oklahoma State University Social Workers Association of Tomorrow (SWAT) proudly participated in the Wooden Children Project, an annual awareness initiative organized by The CARE Campus and Fourth Judicial District CASA Program of Oklahoma.

Throughout the month of April, handcrafted wooden child figures—each symbolizing a confirmed case of child abuse or neglect—are displayed on the Garfield County Courthouse lawn in Enid.

Project organizers noted that in 2024, there were 263 confirmed cases in Garfield County; 72 in Woodward County; 46 in Blaine County; 21 in Major County; 29 in Kingfisher County; and 12 in Grant County.

They added that although these numbers reflect the confirmed cases, it is important to note that child abuse is often underreported, highlighting the ongoing need for increased community awareness and action.

The CARE Campus, formerly the Garfield County Child Advocacy Council, has organized the Wooden Children Project for more than a decade. Each figure, approximately two to three feet tall, is cut and painted by local volunteers. For a sponsorship of $35, individuals, organizations and businesses can “foster” a wooden child by dressing and displaying them as part of the campaign.

Throughout the month of April, handcrafted wooden child figures—each symbolizing a confirmed case of child abuse or neglect—are displayed on the Garfield County Courthouse lawn.

This year, Northwestern’s SWAT chapter fostered two wooden children, contributing to the visual representation of abused and neglected children in the area.

“This initiative aims to increase awareness of the prevalence of child abuse and neglect within our communities,” said Codi Harding, SWAT sponsor and assistant professor of social work. “SWAT hopes this project reminds the community that we all share responsibility in safeguarding children.”

Beyond raising awareness, the Wooden Children Project serves as a call to action. The CARE Campus encourages community members to get involved by sponsoring a wooden child, volunteering as a Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) or donating to support local advocacy efforts.

“Together, we can help protect children and create a safer future for all,” Harding said.

As part of their commitment to child welfare, SWAT also reminds the public that all Oklahoma residents are mandated reporters of suspected child abuse and neglect.

To get involved or learn more, contact The CARE Campus at (580) 242-1153, visit the Northwestern Department of Social Work webpage at www.nwosu.edu/school-of-arts-and-sciences/social-work, or contact Harding by email at clharding@nwosu.edu or phone at (580) 213-3148.

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CONTACT FOR RELEASE:
Sean J. Doherty, University Relations Specialist
sjdoherty@nwosu.edu | (580) 327-8480