Stand for Hope Together
April is National Child Abuse Prevention Month, and all across the nation, communities are coming together to raise awareness about child abuse in their hometowns. YOU can Stand for Hope Together with The Center for Children & Families. Read below to learn about how you can help raise awareness right here in our communities across Louisiana and Mississippi.
Together we can provide hope and healing for our children.
Pinwheels for Prevention
The pinwheel is the national symbol for child abuse prevention, representing the joy and innocence of childhood. It serves as a visual reminder of the efforts being made to ensure every child grows in a safe and nurturing environment.
During Child Abuse Prevention Month in April, pinwheels are displayed nationwide, capturing the essence of childhood—filled with wonder, possibility, and security.
POWERFUL WAYS YOU CAN STAND FOR HOPE
SIGN UP FOR A PREVENTION TRAINING
Education is the first step in preventing child abuse and creating safer communities. The Center for Children & Families offers expert-led trainings to equip schools, churches, parents, and community groups with the knowledge and tools to protect children.
- Mandated Reporter Training – Learn how to recognize and report child abuse.
- Child Abuse Prevention Training – Teach children age-appropriate safety rules and how to seek help.
- Internet & Social Media Safety – Understand online dangers and how to keep kids safe in a digital world.
Become a Court-Appointed Special Advocate (CASA)
CASA volunteers play a critical role in advocating for children in foster care. As a CASA, you will:
- Provide a stable voice for a child navigating the foster system
- Help find permanent, loving homes for children
We are offering weekly CASA training and info sessions throughout April. Visit CASA of Northeast Louisiana to learn more and sign up for training.
SHARE WHAT YOU LEARN
Help in spreading awareness! Talk to your friends, family, and colleagues about the importance of child abuse prevention and why it matters to you.
- Start conversations about what you’ve learned and how others can help!
- Like, share, follow AND encourage others follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn to stay informed!
- Help expand awareness by inviting others to attend a training or setting one up for your workplace, school, church, or community group!
Every conversation you have helps build a safer future for children. Together, we can make a difference!
RECOGNIZING & PREVENTING CHILD ABUSE
Child abuse can take many forms, including physical, emotional, sexual abuse, and neglect. Recognizing the signs early can help save a child and get the immediate help they need.
SOME COMMON WARNING SIGNS INCLUDE:
- Unexplained injuries or bruises
- Sudden changes in behavior or school performance
- Fear of going home or being around certain individuals
- Lack of basic needs such as food, clothing, or medical care
WHAT YOU CAN DO:
- Learn the signs of abuse
- Report suspected abuse to local authorities
- Support families under stress
- Advocate for policies that protect children
For more information on recognizing abuse, visit Child Abuse Prevention or call 1-800-4-A-CHILD.