CASA Recognizes National Child Abuse Prevention Month

COURT HOUSE – Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) for Children recognizes National Child Abuse Prevention Month by highlighting the role that everyone plays in making our community a better place for all families.
“April is a time to celebrate the important role that CASA advocates and communities play in protecting children,” stated CASA Executive Director Angie Waters in a release. “It is a time when communities come together to raise awareness of child abuse prevention and show support for programs and activities that help our children succeed.
“Research tells us that childhood trauma has long-term negative impacts for the child and for society. The rising cost of health care and mental health services, substance abuse, domestic violence, juvenile delinquency and dropout rates have a negative impact on our community.
“Programs that support parents and give them the knowledge that helps them provide their children with positive, nurturing environments have been shown to reverse that negative impact. I encourage everyone to get involved with an organization in our community that helps children and families, become a CASA advocate, a mentor, or financially support a group that makes sure children are safe and families have access to resources.”
CASA advocates ensure that children and their families have the resources, services and support that will help them thrive. Research shows that when parents have the knowledge, skills, and services they need to care for their children, the risk for neglect and abuse diminish and optimal outcomes for children, youth, and families prevail.
“I believe, as I am sure most people do, that all children deserve a childhood that provides a safe, loving, stable home with adults that support their hopes and dreams,” stated CASA Board President E. David Hieb. “Sadly, for many children in Atlantic and Cape May Counties, that home does not exist as hundreds of children suffer abuse and neglect each year and are placed in the foster care system. Recognizing Child Abuse Prevention Month is a way for us to raise awareness of the hardships foster youth face and highlight the roles that CASA advocates, and all of us, play in helping children succeed.”
For more information about child abuse prevention programs and activities during the month of April, and throughout the year, contact CASA for Children at (609) 601-7800 or go to www.AtlanticCapeCASA.org.