Pinwheels for Prevention ceremony highlights child abuse prevention

(File photo from 2014 event at the Habig Center) Tammy Lampert and 2-year-old Symon placed one of the nearly 100 pinwheels around the flagpole at the Habig Center April 8 in recognition of Child Abuse Awareness Month.

April is National Child Abuse Prevention Month, and in Dubois County a special ceremony will take place at the Christian Church of Jasper, April 14 at 6 p.m. to bring child advocates together to highlight prevention techniques.

Statewide, the Indiana Department of Child Services (DCS) is working with local Prevent Child Abuse Indiana councils, court-appointed special advocates (CASAs) as well as other child advocacy groups and local officials, to unite families, neighbors, professionals and policy-makers in the concerted effort to identify and address the issues that lead to abuse or neglect.

“This event is about unity and solidarity in making children a priority,” said Amy Tempel, Local Office Director. “There are events taking place throughout the state to raise the message of prevention, which is the best way to protect children from abuse and neglect.”

By the time children come into the DCS system, they’re already victims of abuse or neglect, added Director Tempel. “We need all eyes and ears in the community reporting child abuse and neglect, but equally important, we need everyone—from families and extended families to neighbors and friends—working together to prevent child abuse.”

Director Tempel says their organization sees the root causes everyday of child abuse in Dubois County. “Parenting is hard enough, but when families are also struggling with basic survival needs like food, shelter and keeping the lights on, it can create stress and hopelessness that escalates into child abuse.”

DCS, child advocacy groups and local government officials understand the realities that can lead to family crises. “Child abuse prevention is a cause that should mobilize our communities to blend our resources, talents and efforts in order to protect vulnerable children,” added Director Tempel. “There is tremendous work being done to protect our children in the State of Indiana and here in Dubois County, but there is always opportunity for each of us to do more.”

Statewide, there are currently over 17,000 children being served by DCS, which includes 71 in Dubois County. Governor Mike Pence proclaimed April as Child Abuse Prevention Month in Indiana, and Lieutenant Governor, Sue Ellspermann kicked off the month with a special ceremony and the planting of a pinwheels garden on the south lawn of the Indiana Statehouse.

At 6 p.m., a short ceremony will highlight the importance of child abuse prevention efforts in Dubois County. Dubois Circuit Court Judge Nathan Verkamp, Dubois County Sheriff Donny Lampert and DCS will make short remarks. Youth participants will include Abby Rodeck of Precious Blood Catholic School, Robert Reutman of Northeast Dubois High School, and Boy Scout Troop 182.