Child Abuse Prevention Month
April is National Child Abuse Prevention Month.
This year we are embracing the theme Growing Bold and Bright Futures. We’re focusing on conserving childhood for our community’s kids, through child sexual abuse prevention and team intervention.
At the Children’s Advocacy Center, we believe in the power of prevention, and are dedicated to ensuring all children grow into the bold and bright futures they deserve.
Please join us in conserving childhood!
There are so many ways to be a part of Child Abuse Prevention Month, including:
Attend an Event
Come to our Glow Pickleball for Prevention event, a Lunch & Learn, a family activity, or one of our other exciting events in April! See below for more info on our calendar of events!
Raise Awareness
Become a Pinwheel Champion! Receive promotional materials and a listing on the Children’s Advocacy Center website as one of our Pinwheel Champions. Donate now
Make a Donation
Donate to our Growing Bold and Bright Futures spring fundraising campaign.
Give Supplies
Give a gift of items to stock Cora’a Care Closet and show support for families financially destabilized by child sexual abuse.
Get Informed
Come for a tour at the Center to learn more about our intervention services or attend a FREE training on how to prevent child abuse.
Child Abuse Prevention Month Events
Check out all the events we have going on in April for Child Abuse Prevention Month! Download our event calendar here.
MARCH 27 — Glow Pickleball: Rally for Prevention
AT MVP ATHLETIC CLUB, HOLLAND | 6-7:30 PM
Family friendly play under the glow lights!
Cost: $35 per person. Register here
APRIL 1 — Seeing the Signs: Sentinel Injury Training for MDT Professionals
AT THE CAC | 11AM-1PM
Sentinel injuries are early warning signs of abuse that often go unnoticed. This training equips our multidisciplinary team members to recognize and respond early—strengthening prevention, collaboration, and our shared commitment to protecting children.
APRIL 1 — Youth Event / Evento de Jovenes
AT LAUP | 6-8PM
8th-12th graders are invited to plant a pinwheel garden, create art, and learn how to support friends in honor of Child Abuse Prevention Month.
APRIL 1 — Investigative Tools for Child Protection
AT THE CAC | 3-5PM
Learn how pretext phone calls can be used as an investigative tool in criminal sexual conduct cases. This training provides practical tips for investigators and prosecutors on obtaining statements from suspects.
APRIL 3 — Wear Blue Day
Wear Blue Day is held each year on the first Friday of April to raise awareness about child abuse prevention. By wearing blue, individuals and communities show support for children, highlight the importance of prevention and protection, and remind us all to speak up and help keep kids safe.
APRIL 15 — Lunch & Learn for Athletic Administrators and Coaches catered by Salt & Pepper
AT THE CHILDREN’S ADVOCACY CENTER | 12-1PM
This training equips athletic leaders with tools to create safer sports environments for young athletes. Learn to recognize warning signs of abuse and grooming, understand reporting responsibilities, and respond to disclosures.
APRIL 17 — Champions for Children Appreciation Event hosted by Midwest BBQ
AT THE CHILDREN’S ADVOCACY CENTER | 3-5PM
A special BBQ to thank the staff and multi-disciplinary team (MDT) members who work together to protect children and support families in our community. Catered by Midwest BBQ.
APRIL 18 — Spring Craft Party:
Kids, Crafts & Critters
AT COOPERSVILLE FARM MUSEUM | 10AM-1 PM
This family-friendly indoor event is admission by donation and a great opportunity to connect and have fun together while sharing simple ways we can all help keep kids safe. The event will also feature crafts and critters!
APRIL 21 — Bold Spirits Bright Futures: Every Child Deserves a Champion
AT CRAFTCO DISTILLERY AND SOCIAL HOUSE | 6:30-8:30 PM
$85 PER TICKET, SPACE IS LIMITED. IF YOU ARE INTERESTED IN ATTENDING OR SPONSORSHIP, PLEASE RESPOND HERE.
2nd annual Child Abuse Prevention Month Signature Event in support of the Children’s Advocacy Center. Enjoy guided cocktail and bourbon tastings, inspiring stories from those who stand beside children, a seasonal meal, and a build-your-own bouquet bar by Alice Hatch Floral.
APRIL 25 — Día de Los Niños & Mercadito (Children's Day Celebration & Market)
AT ST. JOHN’S EPISCOPAL CHURCH | 3-6PM
Join us for a joyful community celebration honoring Día del Niño, a day dedicated to celebrating the happiness, culture, and importance of our children. Free kids activities include: piñata, face painting, games & activities, giveaways, and more. The children's activities are free and this event is open to the community. Local Hispanic vendors will also be selling handmade goods, treats, and unique items.
APRIL 26 — Blue Sunday
Blue Sunday is a national day of prayer for children who have experienced abuse and for those working to protect them. Faith communities are invited to pray for healing, safety and hope for children and families.
Become a Pinwheel Champion Today!
The blue pinwheel is recognized as the national symbol for child abuse prevention and represents the happy, carefree childhood all children deserve.
Thank you to our 2025 Pinwheel Partners:
Arrowaste
Kathy Chenlo
Community Action House
Rev. Dr. Jared Cramer
Rachael DeWitt
Mary Dougherty
Evergreen Sprinkling
Fresh Swell Creative
Pat & Sarah Gedeon
Missy Groothuis
Harbor Health and Massage
Matt Kenny
Latitude Facility Services
Sarah F. Matwiejczyk
Mitch Neubert
Millie Pratt
Amanda Price
