Karen Burkes, Director of State Operated Healthcare Facilities | North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services
Karen Burkes, Director of State Operated Healthcare Facilities | North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services
The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS) and Positive Childhood Alliance are organizing a public event as Governor Josh Stein declares April as Child Abuse Prevention Month in the state. The initiative aims to highlight the collective responsibility in ensuring the well-being of children across North Carolina.
A family-friendly event will take place on Tuesday, April 1st, at Pullen Park in Raleigh from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., featuring free food and entertainment while supplies last. This event aligns with the national campaign theme for 2025, "Powered by Hope, Strengthened by Prevention," which underscores the significance of collaborative efforts to foster a better future for all.
"Every child deserves to grow up in a safe, nurturing environment with hope for the future," stated NC Health and Human Services Secretary Dr. Dev Sangvai. He emphasized the importance of providing families with resources and support before challenges escalate into crises.
Positive Childhood Alliance NC (PCANC), in partnership with NCDHHS, is dedicated to driving systemic change and establishing a robust family support ecosystem throughout North Carolina. Sharon Hirsch, President and CEO of PCANC, remarked, "For every $10 spent on child welfare in the U.S., only $1.50 goes toward prevention—we can and must do better." She advocated for investments in family resource centers and community-based solutions to ensure that families receive necessary support proactively.
During Child Abuse Prevention Month, PCANC and NCDHHS will join national efforts to reshape perceptions about child maltreatment prevention and boost investments in programs prioritizing children and families. Community members are encouraged to participate by attending events such as Pinwheel Planting at Pullen Park on April 1st or wearing blue on April 4th for Wear Blue Day.
The organizations also promote digital advocacy on April 9th to lobby for increased federal funding for community-based child abuse prevention grants. They urge individuals to follow their social media channels throughout April for more engagement opportunities.
For further involvement details during Child Abuse Prevention Month, visit PositiveChildhoodAllianceNC.org.
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