Prevent Child Abuse Iowa Launches Statewide Awareness Campaign

Prevent Child Abuse Iowa is kicking off a statewide campaign to raise awareness that child abuse is preventable through community efforts. The campaign is part of the nationally recognized Child Abuse Prevention Month and features the blue pinwheel as a symbol of the joyful childhood every child deserves.

In Central Iowa, Prevent Child Abuse Iowa is organizing several activities to bring families and community members together. In addition, prevention partners across the state will be handing out pinwheels, planting pinwheel gardens, and hosting fun runs and resource fairs.

“This month is about celebrating families and the role we play in supporting them,” said Steve Scott, executive director of Prevent Child Abuse Iowa. “By helping parents receive support and education, we’re ensuring that they can provide the safe, stable and healthy environments their children need to thrive. We’re not only building a stronger future for these children, but also our community.”

Raising awareness is a critical part of PCA Iowa’s mission. Research shows that while most people are aware that child abuse exists, only half believe it’s preventable and even less understand how to prevent it. PCA Iowa works with partners in 95 Iowa counties who rely on volunteers, advocates and donors to sustain prevention efforts.

PCA Iowa will offer family-friendly activities at the Science Center of Iowa’s Family Night from 5-8 p.m. on April 12 and the Iowa Cubs game starting at 6:35 p.m. on April 29. Children also are invited to send PCA Iowa their recipe for a happy family as part of a month-long contest.

Several Central Iowa partners are supporting this campaign including the Young Professionals Connection, Principal Financial Group, Allegra and The Graham Group.

In addition to attending an awareness event, PCA Iowa encourages individuals to take these steps to prevent child abuse and neglect:

• Learn about child abuse and prevention strategies
• Volunteer with a local prevention council
• Write your elected officials and ask them what they are doing to prioritize children’s healthy development and the future success of our state
• Donate a portion of your state tax refund to Child Abuse Prevention

For more information, visit www.pcaiowa.org/get-involved/prevention-month.