During the ceremony, Billy Gardner, Summit Healthcare Chief Clinical Officer and Acting CEO; Danielle Poteet, Summit Healthcare Pediatric Nurse Liaison; and Catherine Doyle, Director of the Navajo County Family Advocacy Center, spoke about the importance of child abuse prevention, what is being done in the community to protect children, and provided resources to attendees. Their messages emphasized the collective responsibility to prevent child abuse and support those affected.
Following the ceremony, attendees gathered outside Summit Healthcare’s Emergency Department to participate in a powerful visual display of support—placing 760 pinwheels on the lawn. Each pinwheel represented a child affected by abuse in Navajo and Apache counties, serving as a stark reminder of the responsibility we all share in ensuring the safety and well-being of our children.
As part of Summit Healthcare’s ongoing efforts to raise awareness and support children in crisis, Summit is assembling child comfort bags to distribute to local police departments, fire stations, and the Family Advocacy Center. These comfort bags include a teddy bear, a blanket, a coloring book, and a pair of socks. These small, yet meaningful, items may offer children a sense of security in traumatic situations, reminding them that they are not alone and that their community cares.
In addition to raising awareness for child abuse prevention, Summit is proud to announce a significant achievement in pediatric care. Summit has been awarded the Pediatric Prepared Plus Emergency Care Facility Certification from The Arizona Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics (AzAAP)—the second-highest level of pediatric emergency care certification available.
This certification recognizes hospitals that meet rigorous standards for pediatric emergency care, ensuring that young patients receive the highest level of treatment in critical situations. Summit is now one of only three hospitals in Arizona to receive this recognition.
Summit remains committed to providing exceptional pediatric care and advocating for child safety. By raising awareness, fostering community partnerships, and maintaining high medical standards, Summit continues to make a meaningful difference in the lives of children and families.
As Child Abuse Prevention Month continues, Summit encourages everyone to take an active role in protecting children. Together, we can create a safer, healthier future for every child.
If you suspect child abuse, contact Arizona’s Child Abuse Hotline at 1-888-SOS-CHILD (1-888-767-2445).
