DESIGNATING THE MONTH OF APRIL 2026
AS CHILD ABUSE PREVENTION MONTH IN LAKE COUNTY
WHEREAS, every child deserves to grow up in a safe, stable, and nurturing environment where they feel valued, supported, and connected to caring adults and their community; and
WHEREAS, preventing child abuse and neglect is a shared responsibility that requires the commitment of families, neighbors, educators, healthcare providers, faith communities, law enforcement, businesses, and local organizations working together to build a culture where children and families thrive; and
WHEREAS, research on Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) has shown that early trauma can have long-term impacts on health, learning, and wellbeing, increasing the risk for chronic disease, mental health challenges, and other negative outcomes across the lifespan; and
WHEREAS, emerging science also shows that positive childhood experiences, such as supportive relationships with trusted adults, safe and stable environments, and opportunities for connection and belonging, can build resilience and lead to Healthy Outcomes from Positive Experiences (HOPE) for children and families; and
WHEREAS, Lake County is working to strengthen families and prevent child abuse through collaborative, community-based strategies that promote protective factors, build resilience, and ensure families have access to the supports and services they need; and
WHEREAS, the Lake County Children’s Council, in partnership with community organizations and agencies, has developed a Comprehensive Prevention Plan to guide coordinated efforts that strengthen families, support child and family wellbeing, and prevent abuse and neglect before it occurs; and
WHEREAS, Lake County is also advancing Positive Community Norms, recognizing that the adults in our community care deeply about the safety and wellbeing of children and actively contribute to creating supportive environments where children can thrive; and
WHEREAS, throughout the month of April, Lake County will recognize Child Abuse Prevention Month through community events and awareness activities including the Pinwheel Garden Challenge, the Children’s Festival and Advocacy Walk, the Children’s Memorial Flag displays, and other efforts that promote awareness, hope, and collective action; and
WHEREAS, the blue pinwheel is the national symbol of child abuse prevention and represents the happy, healthy childhood that every child deserves, reminding communities that prevention begins with nurturing environments and supportive relationships; and
WHEREAS, the Children’s Memorial Flag is displayed to honor and remember children who have lost their lives to abuse or neglect, serving as a solemn reminder of the importance of prevention and a call for communities to come together to protect children and support families; and
WHEREAS, by working together to strengthen families, build positive relationships, and promote supportive and positive community norms, we can create a safer, healthier future for all children in Lake County.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT PROCLAIMED that the Board of Supervisors of Lake County does hereby designate the month of April 2026 as Child Abuse Prevention Month in Lake County, and encourages all residents, community organizations, businesses, faith communities, and public agencies to join in efforts to strengthen and support families, promote positive childhood experiences, and ensure that every child has the opportunity to grow up safe, healthy, and hopeful.