Madison County set to kick off April’s Child Abuse Prevention Month
April 1 may bring jokes and pranks for many, but Madison County child advocates say protecting children is a matter far too serious for humor.
Community leaders and local officials will gather at 9 a.m. on Wednesday, April 1, at Riverbend Family Ministries (144 E. Ferguson Ave., Wood River) to launch Child Abuse Prevention Month and reaffirm the community’s commitment to keeping children safe.
“This event showcases the importance of protecting our children,” Madison County Child Advocacy Center Executive Director Jennifer Wilkinson said.
Wilkinson said the public event will include informational vendors and guest speakers who work daily to protect and support children and families across the region.
Guest speakers include Madison County Sheriff Jeff Connor, Child Advocacy Center Executive Director Jenny Wilkinson, Associate Judge Maureen Schuette, and Chief Judge Christopher Threlkeld along with Prevent Child Abuse Illinois Southern Region Prevention Specialist Rachel Chruszczyk and Illinois Department of Children and Family Services Central Regional Administrator of Child Protection Tawnya R. Hooper.
The event will include a proclamation reading and information regarding the prevention of child abuse and neglect.
Wilkinson said this year’s national theme, “Pinwheels of Possibilities,” highlights the importance of supporting families before crises occur.
“Pinwheels of Possibilities reminds us that when we support families early and invest in prevention, we strengthen parents, reduce stress and create the conditions for children to thrive,” Wilkinson said.
“Every child is born full of promise, and families are the experts on what their children need,” Wilkinson added. “When we listen to families and invest in prevention, we open the door to safer, healthier futures for children and communities.”
Child Abuse Prevention Month has been recognized nationally since 1983, when the president proclaimed April as a time to raise awareness and encourage communities to work together to prevent abuse and neglect.
Across the United States, organizations and community groups mark the month by planting pinwheel gardens, hosting trainings and fundraisers, and promoting programs that support healthy families and safe childhoods.
The pinwheel has become the national symbol for the prevention of child abuse, representing the innocence and joy of childhood while serving as a reminder that every child deserves the opportunity to grow up in a nurturing and safe home.
Illinois Department of Children and Family Services Director Heidi E. Mueller said strong communities play an important role in supporting children and families.
“Every young person deserves to grow up in a safe and loving home,” Mueller said. “This year’s theme speaks to the heart of our department’s mission — to promote the safety and well-being of children, youth and families, provide family-centered care, and connect families to the resources they need.”
Mueller said when children and families are surrounded by a caring community, their potential becomes limitless.
“By working together, people can create a future where every child in Illinois can thrive and every family feels supported,” she said.
Wilkinson said the work of prevention and healing continues year-round through the Madison County Child Advocacy Center, which provides services to children who have experienced abuse and their families.
Wilkinson said that in 2025 the Madison County Child Advocacy Center’s trained professionals conducted 414 forensic interviews with children related to abuse investigations.
She said 11,534 school-age children received prevention education, 557 individuals received advocacy services, and 364 children and their families received specialized mental health services to help heal the trauma.
“Child abuse and neglect is one of the greatest tragedies of our time,” Wilkinson said. “One in every five children will be abused or neglected before they turn 18. No child deserves this kind of trauma.”
Wilkinson said the kickoff event serves as a reminder that preventing child abuse is a community effort — one that starts with awareness, support and a shared commitment to protecting children.
