To the editor:

As April is Child Abuse Prevention Month, there is no better time than now to encourage community members to take one of three steps: become a mentor to a child or a parent, advocate for policies that support children and families, or donate to a child serving organization in our community. These simple actions can help increase the protective factors in our communities and create a better environment that allows families to thrive and children to have great childhoods.

With the support of more than 40 local groups and agencies, the Douglas County Child Abuse Prevention Task Force is asking mayors and city and county commissioners in Lawrence, Eudora, Lecompton and Baldwin City to declare April Child Abuse Prevention Month. Along with the proclamations, we will be planting blue pinwheels in each city to increase awareness and community engagement in this important issue. The pinwheel serves as the national symbol for child abuse prevention, serving as a reminder that children should be raised in safe, stable and nurturing environments free from abuse and neglect.

This month if every community member would commit to one act of kindness directed at a child or struggling parent, our city could make strides towards ensuring happier families and children. What simple act can you do today to put a smile on a child’s face or help an overburdened parent?