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April is Child Abuse Awareness Month, a time set aside to bring attention to a terrible reality and a time when the community can come together and become informed on ways to prevent it from happening.

Missy Perry of Logan County’s Protection and Permanency wants to remind everyone that April is devoted to celebrating everything we can do to transform our community into a place that cares about, and actively supports, families and children. This is why Logan County will be acknowledging Child Abuse Awareness on April 10, 2013, at 11 a.m. beginning at the Russellville City Square and ending at the historic Logan County Courthouse where a proclamation will be read honoring April as Child Abuse Awareness Month.

Last year the Logan County and Russellville school systems were asked to bring students out to participate in a walk around the square. Organizers are hopeful that even more students can attend this year. They also invite all those that support the children and families of Logan County to come and help remember the children that have suffered neglect, and abuse in Logan County and to bring a voice to help prevent others from the possibility of being neglected and abused.

As always, the Logan County Protection & Permanency staff will hang blue ribbons throughout Russellville and will have the impactful display of blue ribbons and pinwheels on the front lawn of the courthouse.

During the month of April you may see people wearing a blue ribbon or adorning one on their vehicle. The Blue Ribbon campaign began in 1989 to raise awareness about child abuse.

“By ensuring that all parents and caregivers in our community have access to quality childcare, parenting education resources, affordable health services, and substance abuse and mental health programs, we make progress toward what the month stands for,” said Perry.

Prevention is the best hope for reducing child abuse and neglect and improving the lives of children and families. Strengthening families and preventing child abuse requires a shared commitment of individuals and organizations in every community. Being aware of this abuse can help prevent it.