Child abuse prevention month

April brings calendar full of awareness events

By Kristin Ownby

In 2006, nearly a million American children were victims of abuse, according to the United States Department of Health and Human Services. And national statistics show that one in four children will be sexually abused by their 18th birthday.

Child abuse is a problem, even here in Southeast Tennessee. Every April, the Children’s Advocacy Center of Hamilton County and other community prevention agencies shine the spotlight on child abuse prevention and awareness. Several activities and events are planned during April:

April 4: Members of UTC’s Kappa Delta sorority host their second annual Shamrock Golf Classic at Brown Acres Golf Course. Of the money raised, 80 percent will go directly to the CACHC; the remaining 20 percent will go to Prevent Child Abuse America. Contact Pruitt Holmes at Pruitt-Holmes@utc.edu for more information.

April 8: The CACHC hosts its annual April Open House with tours, light refreshments and a “meet and greet” with staff. A visual display on the front lawn will show how many children the CACHC saw during the last year. This event is free. Call 266-6918 for more information.

April 9: Chattanooga’s Kids on the Block is partnering with The Creative Discovery Museum for the second annual Pinwheels for Prevention, from 5 to 8 p.m. at the CDM. This free community event will feature resources to educate families about child abuse prevention. Call 756-2738 for more information.

April 17: On “Wear Blue to Work Day,” the CACHC encourages businesses to have their employees wear blue to raise awareness about child abuse. (Blue is the color of Child Abuse Awareness Month.) The CACHC can provide free flyers for businesses to display in their lobbies informing customers why everyone is wearing blue and how they can help fight child abuse. Call 266-6918 for more information.

April 24: The “Helping Hands~Helping Children” child abuse prevention conference will be held at UTC’s University Center from 8:30 a.m. until 4:30 p.m. Several local and regional speakers will be on hand to present information on child abuse prevention. This conference is especially recommended for teachers, guidance counselors, therapists, law enforcement personnel, social workers and anyone who wants more information on keeping children safe. Call 266-6918 for more information.

April 28: The CACHC will host a free informational gathering at 5:30 p.m. for anyone wanting to learn more about the signs of child abuse and how to report it. Call 266-6918 by 3 p.m. April 28 to confirm your attendance. The CACHC is located at 909 Vine St., near the UTC campus.

May 8: The CACHC will wrap up Child Abuse Awareness Month with a Fish & Chips Casino Night fundraiser at The Mill, 1601 Gulf St. off East Main Street. Contact Shelley McGraw at SMMcGraw@CACHE.org for more information.