April is National Child Abuse Awareness Month

The Blue Ribbon is the International Symbol for Child Abuse

April is Child Abuse Prevention Month: In 1982, by Presidential Proclamation, April was declared Child Abuse Prevention Month. Since that time, child abuse and neglect awareness activities have been promoted across the country during this month. In 1989 in Virginia, the Blue Ribbon Campaign to Prevent Child Abuse had its early beginnings in a grandmother's tribute to her grandson who died as a result of abuse. She tied a blue ribbon to the antenna of her car as a way to remember him and to alert her community to the tragedy of child abuse.
The Blue Ribbon Mission: Encourage community and individual involvement in recognizing and preventing child abuse and neglect. Educate families, children, neighbors, organizations and communities on how to prevent child abuse and neglect. Assist families in achieving healthy parenting practices through education and resources. Empower individuals to intervene in abuse and neglect situations when appropriate.

How You Can Help Prevent Child Abuse & Neglect: Educate yourself on the facts and causes of child abuse and neglect in the nation. Check with your County Social Services’ website for more information about child abuse prevention. Mentor a child who may be at risk of being abused or neglected. Take a parenting class. Invite another parent to join you. Give support to a mother, father or caregiver experiencing stress. Write letters to elected representatives in support of parent education and child abuse prevention. Arrange for a speaker at your organization or workplace to help educate others about child abuse and neglect. Make a donation to Parent Help USA on this website by clicking the MAKE A DONATION button on the leftside of your screen or call Parent Help USA 949.650.3461 to volunteer.