Powered by Hope,
Strengthened by Prevention
April is Child Abuse Prevention Month when communities come together with a shared vision of all children growing up in safe and loving homes. In Illinois, one in five children will be a victim of child abuse or neglect before the age of 18. This year’s theme, Powered by Hope, Strengthened by Prevention, calls us to action to commit to a future where every child grows up safe, loved, and full of hope. Prevention isn’t just about avoiding harm – it’s about creating opportunities for families to thrive. Recognize the signs of abuse and neglect. Support positive parenting. Know how to report abuse if you see it. Let’s work together to protect children, strengthen families, and transform our communities.
Wear Blue Day: April 4
Wear blue on April 4 to show your support for child abuse prevention efforts. Post pictures to your social media pages. Tag @Shelter Youth & Family Services on Facebook and Instagram. Use the hashtags #WearBlueDay2025 #GreatChildhoods or #GoBlueIllinoisShare to join the nationwide wave of support.
Digital Advocacy Day:
April 16
Contact your member of Congress to advocate for increased investments for Community-Based Child Abuse Prevention programming, family strengthening policies, and economic supports that give families access to the resources they need.
Show Your Support,
Raise Awareness: Download and Post these images
Download and post these social media images. Click on image to open and save files (png). Suggested messaging may include:
“This April #ChildAbusePreventionMonth I’m spreading awareness by starting conversations with my friends and
family about how to prevent abuse from happening, and how to recognize the signs of abuse. To learn about
these topics, check out https://www.preventchildabuseillinois.org/learn-more”
“Childhood trauma can have a lasting impact on the growing brain and body. That’s why I support April
#ChildAbusePreventionMonth and help spread awareness about this important issue.”