Every child deserves to grow up in a safe, stable, and nurturing home. Yet, the harsh reality is that too many children in our country—and in McHenry County—experience abuse and neglect.
April is National Child Abuse Prevention Month, a time to raise awareness, take action, and highlight the power of prevention and community support.
The Urgency of the Issue
In 2022 alone, there were over 550,000 substantiated cases of child abuse and neglect in the United States. By September of that year, more than 360,000 children were in foster care. These are more than just statistics—they are children with stories, dreams, and the need for a voice.
At least 1 in 7 children in the U.S. experience abuse or neglect each year. These experiences can have long-term effects on a child’s mental, emotional, and physical health. But the good news is—child abuse and neglect are preventable. Prevention begins with education, support, and strong communities.
CASA: Advocating for the Most Vulnerable
At CASA of McHenry County, our mission is to be that voice for children in the foster care system. CASA volunteers (Court Appointed Special Advocates) are trained to advocate for the best interests of children who have experienced abuse or neglect. They ensure these children are safe, have access to resources, and are placed in nurturing, permanent homes whenever possible.
CASA volunteers also play a vital role in prevention. By identifying needs early, helping connect families to services, and supporting children throughout their court cases, our volunteers help reduce the chances of re-traumatization and promote family healing and reunification when safe and appropriate.
Why Child Abuse Prevention Matters
Child abuse and neglect are not just individual tragedies—they are public health crises. The effects ripple through communities, impacting everything from education to healthcare. But when we invest in strengthening families, we help children not only survive but thrive.
Protective factors that reduce the risk of abuse include:
- Parental resilience – The ability to bounce back from stress and challenges
- Knowledge of parenting and child development – Understanding what children need at every stage
- Social connections – Friends, family, and neighbors who offer support
- Concrete support in times of need – Access to food, housing, healthcare, and childcare
- Social-emotional competence in children – Helping kids express their emotions in healthy ways
When families have these supports in place, the risk of abuse and neglect significantly decreases.
How You Can Help
You don’t have to be a CASA volunteer to make a difference (though we’d love for you to become one!). Here are some simple, powerful ways you can support child abuse prevention this April and beyond:
✅ Be a supportive friend or neighbor – A kind word or helping hand can go a long way.
✅ Know the signs – Unexplained injuries, fearfulness, or sudden changes in behavior may indicate abuse. If you suspect a child is being harmed, report it.
✅ Support CASA of McHenry County – Volunteer, donate, or share our mission.
✅ Advocate for policies – Support programs that offer parental education, mental health care, early childhood services, and family supports.
✅ Wear Blue – Show your support on Friday, April 4, for Wear Blue Day.
✅ Spread the word – Follow us on social media, share resources, and join the conversation using #ChildAbusePreventionMonth, #ChangeAChildsStory, and #ThrivingFamilies.
The Symbol of Hope: The Pinwheel
Throughout April, you may notice blue pinwheels spinning in yards, parks, and public spaces. The pinwheel is the national symbol of Child Abuse Prevention—representing the joy and bright futures all children deserve.
Let these pinwheels be a reminder of the hope we all can bring. Every child deserves a chance to grow up safe, loved, and supported.
Join CASA. Change a Child’s Story.
By becoming a CASA volunteer, you can offer stability and hope to a child navigating the trauma of abuse and the uncertainty of the foster care system. You can be the one consistent, caring adult in their life—a voice they can count on when it matters most.
👉 Learn more at www.casamchenrycounty.org/nextsteps
👉 Follow us on social media to join our April campaign and events
👉 Share your support with #GoBlue #CAPMonth #ChangeAChildsStory