Environment is the area of focus for the month in Rotary.  Child abuse prevention is the national focus of observance for April. In 2022 an estimated 558,899 children (unique incidents) were victims of abuse and neglect in the United States. In 2024, Children’s Advocacy Centers around the country served 372,613 children experiencing allegations of abuse. The national focus is to raise awareness and promote community action to prevent child abuse and neglect.

National Child Prevention Month serves as a platform to educate the public about signs of child abuse and neglect. We are encouraged to become familiar with signs of abuse and report potential cases to the proper authorities. With 1 in 4 girls and 1 in 13 boys in the United States estimated to experience child sexual abuse, there is a great need for communities to work together to support families and provide resources that help create a culture of prevention.

Organizations like Prevent Child Abuse America provide resources and information to help educate communities. Locally, we have The Alliance for Children, which does a great work in Arlington, Fort Worth and Grand Prairie. Julie Evans shared with the club last Thursday, the many supportive tools they use in conjunction with local organizations such as the Arlington Police, Child Protective Services, and Cook Children’s hospital.

Rotary International also prioritizes protecting youth through comprehensive policies, mandatory training, and a zero-tolerance for abuse, ensuring safe environments for all youth involved in Rotary activities.

Blue is the color for child abuse prevention. Let us show our support for protecting children by wearing blue or a blue ribbon to the club meeting of Thursday April 10.