Daviess County recognizes Child Abuse Prevention Month

Community members gathered at the Daviess County Courthouse on April 1 to mark the start of Child Abuse Prevention Month, joining local leaders and students in a show of support for the region’s youngest residents.

Daviess County Family Court Judge Jennifer Hendricks formally proclaimed April as Child Abuse Prevention Month, reaffirming the community’s commitment to child safety. Students from Owensboro Innovation Academy then joined local leaders to plant pinwheels on the courthouse grounds — each one a symbol of hope and awareness for children across the county.

“The proclamation and the pinwheel planning is a great way for the community to come together for one purpose — to recognize that child abuse is a real concern and that we stand up and fight for our children,” said Maria Shyver, Community Collaboration for Children program administrator for the Green River Area Development District (GRADD).

Organizers noted it was the best-attended proclamation event to date.

Local media partners were recognized for helping amplify the message and sustain public awareness around child abuse prevention.

Child Abuse Prevention Month underscores the role communities play in creating safe, stable environments for children. Through GRADD’s Community Collaboration for Children program, families are connected year-round to resources, early intervention services and support systems aimed at reducing the risk of abuse and neglect.