National Child Abuse Prevention Month 2024 highlights family resilience and support
By Oklahoma Commission on Children and Youth
April is National Child Abuse Prevention Month, a time when we all need to think about how we can protect our kids better. It's a reminder for us to create safe and loving environments where children can grow and thrive.
During April and beyond, the Oklahoma Commission on Children and Youth (OCCY) is asking everyone in the state to join in different activities to help families and communities become stronger. By equipping parents with essential knowledge, skills, and resources, the objective is to cultivate supportive communities that serve as champions against child maltreatment.
"At OCCY, we firmly believe that every child deserves love and security," says Annette Jacobi, Executive Director of OCCY. "Let's team up this National Child Abuse Prevention Month to make sure every child has the chance to thrive."
OCCY continuously works with community partners to support families and make communities stronger. Instead of just dealing with child abuse after it happens, the agency focuses on giving caregivers support all year round. They want to make it easier for families to get help when they need it by working together and planning ahead. They're organizing events, reaching out to people, and forming partnerships to create a culture where everyone supports and empowers each other across Oklahoma. Community members are invited participate whenever it’s possible.
As we face the difficulties of parenting today, it's really important to help families who need support. This means giving them the assistance they need to do well. By encouraging positive parenting methods and teaming up with groups that focus on families, communities can work together to tackle bigger issues that lead to child abuse.
During National Child Abuse Prevention Month, let's use this opportunity to make real changes and create communities where every child feels valued and safe. If you want to know how you can participate, check out this year’s calendar by clicking here. You can also learn more by downloading the National Child Abuse Prevention Month 2024 Roadmap.
Let's join forces to build a brighter, safer future for our children.
*** The Oklahoma State Department of Health facilitates the Oklahoma Community-Based Child Abuse Prevention (CBCAP) program, which provides the National Child Abuse Prevention Month 2024 Roadmap and the 2024 Statewide April Activity and Event Calendar.