April is National Child Abuse Prevention Month giving us an opportunity to come together to protect our children and ensure every child has a safe and nurturing environment to grow and thrive.
It is a time to reflect on the importance of safeguarding our future generation and taking proactive steps to prevent abuse and neglect
We are dedicated to raising awareness, providing resources to families, and supporting children. This April, we encourage you to take part in this important mission and engage in activities that inspire action within your community.. Below are some ways you can participate.
Pray to end the evil of abuse
Offer a Mass or prayer service (See USCCB Booklet-English or USCCB Booklet-Spanish), initiate a Novena for Protection and Healing from Abuse, pray the rosary for healing (English or Spanish) or the Chaplet of Divine Mercy.
Wear Blue
Join us on Wear Blue Day on Friday, April 4th to stand in solidarity for child abuse prevention.
Plant a garden of hope
Plant a blue pinwheel garden. Pinwheels are a symbol fo the bright futures all children deserve. Make Your Own Pinwheels or purchase from retailers such as Amazon or Oriental Trading Company.
Volunteer
Donate your time to organizations working to protect children and strengthen families.
Educate yourself and others
Learn to recognize the signs of abuse and share this knowledge within your community. Visit Office of Minor and At-Risk Adult Protection Website to learn more about Archdiocesan adult and youth trainings and resources for responding to abuse and promoting healing. Find out more about community efforts at Child Abuse Prevention Month in Colorado – CO Pinwheels for Prevention.
See Something - Say Something!
Be a voice for the vulnerable. Learn how to respond to disclosures. Report all suspicions of child abuse and neglect to the Colorado Child Abuse and Neglect Hotline at 1-844-264-5437.
If the allegation is associated with Archdiocese of Denver, after reporting to authorities also notify reporting@archden.org or 720-239-2832.
Visit Report Abuse – Archdiocese of Denver for more reporting information.
Support Families
Offer kindness and assistance to parents and caregivers who may need encouragement.
As we move forward, let us also honor the countless individuals, organizations, and policymakers who work tirelessly to protect children and support families. Together, we can break the cycle of abuse and create a brighter, safer future.
Thank you for your time, compassion, and commitment to this vital cause.
Contact Alex.Kwan@archden.org in the Office of Minor and At-Risk Adult Protection with questions!
Why is Child Abuse Prevention Month Important?
Child Abuse Prevention Month is important because it shines a spotlight on the critical need to protect children from harm and create environments where they can thrive. Tragically, nearly 1 in 7 children experience some form of abuse or neglect annually in the United States. In 2022, approximately 1,990 children lost their lives due to abuse. These numbers are a stark reminder of the critical need for community involvement and support to end this epidemic.
Here are a few key reasons why this observance matters:
Raising Awareness
Many people may not realize how widespread child abuse is or how to recognize the signs. During the month of April let’s work together to educate the public about the different forms of abuse and neglect.
Encouraging Prevention
It highlights the importance of proactive measures, such as supporting parents, strengthening families, and creating safe communities, to prevent abuse before it occurs.
Empowering Communities
Awareness drives action. By engaging individuals, organizations, and policymakers, Child Abuse Prevention Month inspires collective efforts to safeguard children.
Advocating for Victims
It provides a platform to advocate for children who have experienced abuse, ensuring they receive the care, support, and justice they deserve. Children are the foundation of our future, and protecting their safety and well-being is a responsibility shared by everyone. It’s a time to reflect, act, and make a difference.
