April is Child Abuse Prevention Month. Local Blue Ribbon Task Force Chairperson and Director of the Turning Point Child Advocacy Center Jill Mann, shares signs to lookout for in identifying abuse:
“When kids are acting out, instead of saying that is just a bad kid, maybe talk to that child. A lot of times there are reasons behind that behavior. If you are seeing that, make that report. In the past, people have said that is not their business, that is family business, and that is true, but it is also everybody’s business to try to stop it. Things like recognizing the signs; if you see child abuse happening, make that report. Call the DCFS hotline, call the police, and make that report. Also, just know other agencies in your area to call and ask questions. If you call us at the Child Advocacy Center we are happy to answer questions that you have. Places like Victim Services or Safe Harbor can help or maybe talk to your doctors or medical professionals.”
In creating awareness around child abuse prevention, the Blue Ribbon Task force will be holding a Hands Around the Courthouse event in Monmouth this Thursday, April 18th at Pattee Plaza beginning at 2 pm. Meanwhile, Hands Around the Courthouse for Knox County will be held Thursday, April 25th also at 2 pm.
