Voices of Change 2018

Reducing the Risk of Abuse for
Children with Disabilities

It's NEVER to early to begin educating children with disabilities about body safety!

Your generous donation will help Voices of Change 2018 continue the development and execution of our education programs to reduce the risk of abuse for children with disabilities. It will also allow us to begin building our programs for parents, law enforcement and medical professionals. Voices of Change 2018 relies on donations from the community, corporations, foundations and individuals, like you.

Donate

inaugural charity golf scramble - friday, june 17, 2022

Thank you to all of our Event Sponsors. Sponsorships are between $100.00 - $5,000.00. We appreciate everyone's support. To learn more about sponsoring our event and our sponsorship levels, please contact Nicole Moehring at 440.864.7074 or email: nmoehring@voicesofchange2018.com

Akron Rubber Ducks

Akron Zoo

Aldi

Chipotle

Conrads Tire Express & Total Care Care

Custom Pinspirations

Ed Squire Media

Exceptional Needs Today

Famous Daves

John's Crazy Socks

Kaulig Charitable Giving Programs

LaVida Massage

Michael Angelo's Winery

Old Firehouse Winery

Oriental Trading Company

proBake

The Olive Tap

Target

Top Golf

melissa mack, emcee for charity golf outing

Melissa Mack, emcee for Charity golf outing
We are excited to announce our emcee, Melissa Mack, former Fox 8 News Meteorologist, for our Voices of Change 2018 Inaugural Golf Outing.

mission and vision

Voices of Change 2018 is a national organization piloting our groundbreaking programs in Ohio.

Mission and Vision
Our Mission

To reduce the risk of abuse for children with disabilities through preventative education, while empowering parents and guardians.

Our Vision 

By sharing our lived experiences and through collaborations with law enforcement, mental health professionals and other organizations, we will build a foundation of advocacy, awareness, resources and support for children with disabilities and their families.

Our Philosophy

We believe the way to reduce the risk of abuse for children with disabilities begins in the following ways:

Advocacy: We believe in creating awareness of the global epidemic of children with disabilities being abused.
Collaboration: We believe through local, state and national organizations, we will form partnerships to strengthen our mission and vision.
Education: We believe educating children with disabilities, their families and the community is essential to the prevention of abuse.
Empowerment: We believe through education; children will develop self-awareness of their bodies and be able to identify unsafe situations.
Justice: We believe the path to justice, in whatever form, should be equal and accessible to all.
Respect: We believe everyone should be treated with dignity, equality and respect. We believe everyone’s voice has a right to be heard.


 



our history

Our History
Voices of Change 2018 (VOC18) was founded by Nicole Moehring and her daughter Maci Lynch. The passion and drive behind starting this organization came after Maci and her brother Evan, who was diagnosed with Fragile X Syndrome and Autism, were both victims of sexual abuse and assault.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO) Violence against adults and children with disabilities statistics, children with disabilities are almost four times more likely to experience violence than non-disabled peers. They are 3.7 times more likely than non-disabled peers to be victims of some form of violence, 3.6 times more likely to be victims of physical violence and 2.9 times more likely to be victims of sexual violence.

Often children with disabilities do not realize abuse is happening. Many times, the perpetrator is the child’s primary care source, a family member or someone the family or child knows. Perpetrators often threaten children so they are afraid to tell anyone. This allows the abuse to continue and as a result, the child more than likely will suffer from extensive trauma.

Nicole quickly discovered how different her children were treated and how difficult it is to find trauma-responsive mental health clinicians that are trained to work with these victims. In addition, she experienced many challenges trying to navigate the criminal justice system as there are currently few protocols in place to help children with disabilities. Wanting to help others who experienced the same barriers as they have, Nicole and Maci founded VOC18 so that others would not have to be alone.

Nicole felt that, because Evan has a disability, his rights were taken away, he was discriminated against, and his voice wasn’t heard. She felt very alone in her quest for justice and finding support and resources for his road to recovery.


Education and advocacy are imperative for children with disabilities, to reduce the risk and impact of abuse.

Voices of Change 2018 is committed to reducing the risk of  abuse by:
Educating children with disabilities and their families about:
  • Body Parts / Private Parts – Teaching Children Proper Names
  • Boundaries
  • Body Autonomy
  • Consent
  • Family Safety Plans
  • Good Touching / Bad Touching
  • How to Be Their Own Advocate
  • How to Disclose Abuse 
  • How to Talk to Your Child/Children
  • Internet Safety
  • It's OK to say NO! 
  • It's OK to Tell
  • Secrets vs Surprises

As parents, caregivers, family members and friends of children with disabilities, we NEED to be the voices for the voiceless. The ONLY way to reduce the risk of abuse is by becoming EDUCATED, ADVOCATING for the voiceless and SPEAKING UP.



 

from our founders

Most people think it will never happen to their child, but abuse does not discriminate. In fact, individuals with disabilities are more vulnerable. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), children with disabilities are 2.9 times more likely to be victims of sexual violence. This is unacceptable to us, and is why we founded our organization.

Raising a child with a disability is already challenging, and abuse makes things so much harder.

Our family went through this. We should have had access to support and services. We didn’t. We felt the devastation. We never want anyone else to feel that way.

We are committed to using our lived experience to make that a reality by providing:

1. Preventative education to parents, children, medical professionals, and law enforcement

2. Support, guidance, resources, and advocacy to victims and their families on their path to healing

Nicole Moehring, Founder           Maci Lynch, Co - founder
from our founders

our founders and staff

Nicole A. Moehring

Founder

Maci Lynch

Co-founder

Jacob O'Connor

Intern

reporting child abuse

Child abuse won't report itself. If you suspect abuse, don't hesitate to report it. You could be saving a child's life.



Child Abuse
Phone: 1.800.4.A.CHILD
(1-800-422-4453)


National Human Trafficking
Phone: 1.888.373.7888


communication cards

Available for free through our partnership with, The Mama Bear Effect

Communication Cards for children with disabilities

These communication cards for children with disabilities are made available for free through our partnership with, The Mama Bear Effect, a nonprofit organization.

Learn More  

there are a variety of ways to contribute to voices of change 2018

Voices of Change is funded by the generosity of our community, corporations, grants, individuals and foundations.

$50

Donation Amount

amazon smile

You Shop. Amazon Gives.

amazon smile
Support Voices of Change 2018 on AMAZON SMILE
AmazonSmile is a way for you to support Voices of Change 2018 when you shop. There is no charge for Amazon Smile. When you shop on AmazonSmile, they will donate 0.5% of your purchase (on eligible products) to the non-profit organization of your choice.

We would be so grateful if you would consider choosing Voices of Change 2018 your AmazonSmile Charity.

For any questions about Amazon Smile, please call  440-864-7074 or email info@voicesofchange2018.com

Voices of Change 2018, is approved to by the State of Ohio to be a Nonprofit Organization, 501(c)(3).

Our effective date of exemption is: July 23, 2019
Our EIN # is on file at the Voices of Change 2018 home office.



planned giving

By making a Planned Giving gift to Voices of Change 2018 through your trust, will or another giving form, you are helping us provide services for future generations.

Guidestar Gold Seal of Transparency 2022

Voices of Change 2018 is proud to have earned the Guidestar Gold Seal of Transparency 2022

Legacy Donors

When you make a Legacy Gift to Voices of Change 2018 we will recognize you as a member of our Legacy Giving.

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Life Insurance

By naming, Voices of Change 2018 as a primary or secondary beneficiary of a life insurance policy, your estate will be allowed an estate-tax charitable deduction.

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Retirement Plan

By naming Voices of Change 2018 as a beneficiary of retirement plans, your estate can achieve substantial tax savings.

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Trust or Will

Designate a specific dollar amount or percentage to Voices of Change 2018 in your Trust or Will.

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our amazon wish list

Our amazon wish list
AMAZON WISH LIST: 
We have a wish list on Amazon for items we need while we continue to build our nonprofit. Any donations would be greatly appreciated. Items can be purchased directly through our Amazon Wish List. It takes only a moment, and your much needed gift will be delivered directly to us.

https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/1X5136QDA2W2J?

Currently, we are in most need of:
  • Amazon Basics Hanging Folders, Letter Size, Blue, 25-Pack
  • Avery Ready Index 24-Tab Double Column Dividers, Printable Table of Contents, Multicolor Tabs, 1 Set (11321)
  • Avery 1.5 inch Binder Spine Inserts, Pack of 25 (89105), White
  • Cardinal 1.5 Inch 3 Ring Binder, Round Ring, White, 4 Pack, Holds 350 Sheets (79517)
  • Copy Paper
  • Hammermill Printer Paper, 20 Lb Copy Paper, 8.5 x 11 - 8 Ream (4,000 Sheets) - 92 Bright, Made in the USA
  •  Hammermill Printer Paper, Premium Color 32 Lb Copy Paper, 8.5 x 11 - 1 Ream (500 Sheets) - 100 Bright, Made in the USA, 102630
  • Laser Jet Ink
  • Pendaflex File Folders, Letter Size, 8-1/2" x 11", Classic Manila
  • Smead Colored Hanging File Folder with Tab, 1/5-Cut Adjustable Tab, Letter Size, Teal, 25 per Box (64074)
  • USB Flash Drive 32GB, Maspen USB Thumb Drive 2.0 High Speed USB Memory Stick Jump Drive Zip Drives Pen Drive,Blue,32 GB




affiliations and resources

To learn more about our affiliates and resources, click on their icon to be directed to their website or social media platform. For more information on being listed as a Voices of Change 2018 affiliate or resource, please email: info@voicesofchange2018.com

Autism Advocate Parenting Magazine

Learn More  

Buddy Speaks

Learn More  

Crime Victims Services

Learn More  

Disability Rights Ohio

Learn More  

Hinckley, OH Police Department

Learn More  

Lydia Lerma Foundation

Learn More  

Medina County Board of Developmental Disabilities

Learn More  

NDSS

Learn More  

Ohio Department of Developmental Disabilities

Learn More  

Ohio Developmental Disabilities Council

Learn More  

Ohio Early Intervention

Learn More  

OVWA (Ohio Victims Witness Association)

Learn More  

Parenting Safe Children

Learn More  

Rachael Brooks

Learn More  

The Arc of Ohio

Learn More  

testimonials

Thank you to everyone who has sent messages and reviews for Voices of Change. If you would like to submit a testimonial, please email info@voicesofchange2018.com. Please include in the email your permission for the testimonial to be used on our website and social media platforms.

     

 This is the time of year when we need to acknowledge what we are grateful for. I know Nicole would never want credit for the amazing work she is doing, I have been thinking so much about how she truly lead me out of an extremely dark place. When I found out my daughter, who has special needs, was sexually abused, my world was shattered. I didn’t know what to do, who to turn to or where to go. I was given Nicole Moehring name from Voices of Change 2018. She came highly recommended and there was nothing but positive things said about her. I will be honest, at first, I was hesitant to call. This isn’t the easiest subject to discuss, after all. But I knew I needed help. So, I made the call. It was one of the best decisions I have made. Nicole has gone above and beyond to assist me, finding necessary resources my family needed, even calling to check on us and asking if there was anything else she could do. She is a woman of integrity, professionalism, dedication, perseverance and is making changes for the special needs community. I know I can pick up the phone anytime and call her and she will be there to help our family. That’s how an organization should operate! I have read (and listened to) many publications, media and podcasts which Nicole has been featured in, I knew her heartbreaking story. Never once did she ever refer to her own journey in any of our calls, unless I asked. She never made it about her. Every call was about my family and our circumstances. WOW! She is an incredibly selfless individual, who truly gives her heart and soul to the nonprofit they founded out of horrible circumstances. I marvel in her strength because I am sure it isn’t easy. I highly recommend Voices of Change 2018. There work is unparalleled to any other organization. Thank you Nicole!

Emily Benson: Parent of a child with a disability who was abused
     

 "We were so glad Voices of Change 2018 decided to partner with us last year. They bring critical niche expertise and understanding that cannot be found anywhere else, and when needed, can mean the world for a victim and their family. Very recently we were approached by someone needing help because of an incident involving sexual abuse and we were able to quickly link them up with VOC2018 so they could get the help, advice, and understanding they need. What VOC2018 is able to offer for victims and their family members is priceless."

21 & Change, Inc. (A Florida public nonprofit): Partner
     

 One of the most painful journeys I have ever been on was finding out my son-in-law was abusing my grandson. I was given Nicole’s name at Voices of Change 2018. She came highly recommended. Nicole has gone above and beyond to help our family. She is so well connected throughout the country and was able to provide me with the appropriate resources for our family. Nicole didn’t just stop there, she has so much passion and empathy for what others are going through, she has followed up with me to see how I am handling things, how my daughter and grandson are and to ask if we needed anything else. She and her daughter have built this organization from her own grief, to hell others. I highly recommended Nicole and Voices of Change. Nicole has dedicated walking this journey along side with others, so they don’t feel alone! She stands strong behind their organizations mission. She is a woman of integrity! Thank you for everything you are doing!

Amanda Ann: Speech & Language Pathologist and Grandparent of a child who was abused
     

 I love the work this organization is doing to bring healing into the world. Please support them any way you can. They are changing the world one voice at a time.

Kevin McNeil: Retired SVU Detective, Founder, The Twelve Project and Voices of Change 2018, Board Member
     

 Over the past year, I have had the privilege of working with Voices of Change 2018 and have been thoroughly impressed with the passion and commitment of the leadership. The organization is primed for great things and I am excited to be able to work closely with them in all their endeavors!

Michael Matthews CEO, P5 Ventures, Inc.: Board Member
     

 This is an organization with the intellect, vision, passion and drive to make real change for individuals with disabilities. Driven by personal experience, and seeing the many gaps in support for both victims and professionals, they are making much needed stride in bringing about much needed change! True leaders.

Naveh Eldar: Founder, The Landscape Podcast
     

 Two amazing women that will stand beside those that need the extra support and carry those that feel defeated.

Cheri McCandless: Supporter, Step Sister and Friend
     

 Nicole and Maci are true advocates! They have an immense passion for helping victims and will make a difference. I have witnessed, first hand, their drive and commitment to fight for victims and what is right. They will be the Voice of Change!

Shannon Cole Collins: Supporter, Child Advocate and Friend
     

 Nicole and Maci are helping give voice to those who have been silenced. You two are doing amazing things and empowering those along the way.

Lydia Lerma: Founder, Lyndia Lerma Foundation and Friend
     

 Voices of Change is such an incredible organization! I am so blessed to know Nicole and Maci and they are making amazing strides for survivors. Thank you for all that you do.

Kristine Irwin: Founder, Voices of Hope and Friend
     

 Great message and service by Voices of Change. Encouraging & Inspiring, fills a gap that provides hope for many.

Willie Jones: Professional Development/Culture Specialist, Ohio Association of County Boards
     

 I love everything this organization stands for! Just by speaking to Nicole, you can hear the passion in her voice — This momma & organization will stop at nothing to make sure that, not only her voice is heard, but that our children's’ voices are heard, as well! As a speech-language pathologist, working with children with special needs daily, I can say, The Voices Of Change 2018 has opened my eyes to a whole new world! A new world which will begin in my therapy room, as I continue to help children with communication deficits communicate their wants & NEEDS. Thank you, Voices of Change!! Keep up the amazing work you do to bring advocacy to such a controversial topic!

Laurna Leigh: Speech & Language Pathologist
     

 Nicole and Maci are two brilliant, kind, and selfless women that I am inspired by everyday. They help counsel, support, and advocate for others that have been in similar situations they have been in, without asking anything in return. I am excited to see Voices of Change grow and develop, helping more and more people everyday!

Halle Stelbasky: Supporter, Advocate and Friend
     

 You will never understand the impact you have had on our family! To say thank you doesn’t even seem like enough. We are forever grateful for everything you have done. You have been there from my first call to you and have never left our side. Everyone needs that kind of support in life. We appreciate you and applaud your strength to be able to turn your horrifying pain into a purpose that is needed for so many innocent children with disabilities. It takes a special individual to be able to stand tall and strong in your weakest moments and be able to fight the way you have! You are incredible! God Bless you. Today and always!

Harper Allen
     

 I love ❤️ everything about what Nicole and Maci are doing to bring awareness and provide support regarding sexual abuse! They are amazing and courageous women who have taken a stand to fight against this horrific crime our world faces today. Their bravery is helping so many victims realize they are not alone and I’m very proud of the organization they have built.

Tammy Rock McIlveen: Entrepreneur
     

 Nicole has so much strength. She's fighting every day to make this world better for survivors. And Voices of Change is an amazing organization for survivors.

Stevie Croisant: Founder, We Are HER and Friend
     

 An organization committed to bringing awareness, education, and empowerment to our community!

Megan Morganstern: Speech & Language Pathologist, Friend, Supporter
     

 These ladies are absolutely amazing. Sharing their stories and helping others, they are a true blessing from god!

Denise Miller Barbarotta: Supporter and Friend
     

 I'm a grandmother of 4 teenagers I pray everyday that no harm come to them from sexual predators. Nicole & daughter Maci are amazing to start this awareness program & to tell their story first hand. I hope they be able to keep this non- profit organization going

Juanita Porach: Friend and Supporter
     

 Voices of Change is an awesome group that is getting the message out about childhood sexual abuse. I too am a victim of childhood sexual abuse and appreciate all this group has to offer. Encouragement goes a long way! If it doesn’t tell me anything but to keep going!!

Tina Neely Byers: Supporter, Special Needs Advocate and Friend
     

 A great cause that is lead by some amazing people!

Jake Ferguson: Special Education Teacher, Supporter, Friend
     

 What an incredible organization and mission! Thank you for being the voice for the voiceless and for bringing awareness to such a sensitive and much needed subject for children with disabilities! Your work is so necessary!

Megan Jane: RN, Mom of 2 very special kids
  

contact us

  • 1294 Ridge Road #50 Hinckley, OH 44233

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