By Casey Bultman
Dane County Department of Human Services
In recognition of World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (WEAAD), celebrated annually on June 15, Dane County Adult Protective Services, in collaboration with Pellitteri Data Destruction, the Area Agency on Aging, and Dane County Waste & Renewables, is holding a Shred Fest and Small Electronics Recycling event on Friday, June 12, at Warner Park from 11 am–1 pm.
Financial exploitation, financial abuse and financial scams are the leading types of elder abuse each year in Dane County and across the state.
In 2025, an estimated $6.1 million was lost by older adults in Dane County, and an estimated loss of $100 million statewide. Of the $6.1 million estimated loss in Dane County, only about $750,000 was recovered. These are estimated amounts for reported cases only; many more cases go unreported so money lost is likely even higher.
By confidentially shredding personal documents and recycling small electronics (cell phones, laptops, e-readers and tablets) with identifying information, you are protecting yourself. Bank statements, old tax returns, receipts, old check books that are not properly destroyed can be obtained by those with bad intentions and used to access your accounts, your email and your identity.
Don’t be a victim of financial exploitation. Bring your personal documents (up to three bags/boxes per vehicle) to be confidentially shredded by Pellitteri Data Destruction Division.
In addition, Dane County Waste & Renewables will be accepting small personal electronics for recycling. Electronics which will be accepted are cell phones, laptops, e-readers and/or tablets. Dane County Waste & Renewables will ensure your devices are properly and safely recycled, protecting personal information which may be stored on them.
Volunteers will be on hand to guide you to the appropriate areas at Warner Park, and additional volunteers will assist in taking your items from your vehicle to the appropriate recycling areas.
We hope to see you there.
