Community Collaboration During Child Abuse Prevention Month

April is Child Abuse Prevention Month, and for CASA programs nationwide, it holds immense significance. It’s a time to amplify our efforts in safeguarding the most vulnerable members of our community—our children. For CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocate) programs, this month serves as a poignant reminder of our mission to advocate for the best interests of children who have experienced abuse or neglect.

While the task of raising awareness about child abuse prevention may seem daunting, community collaboration emerges as a powerful tool in our arsenal. By joining forces with local businesses and organizations, we can extend the reach of our message, engage more people, and ultimately create a safer environment for children in our communities.

Here are three examples of ways that local CASA programs have partnered with their communities to raise awareness about the impactful work of CASA volunteers:

1. Murray/Whitfield CASA‘s Coffee Sleeve Campaign:

Last year, Murray/Whitfield CASA forged a partnership with a local coffee shop. Together, they offered coffee sleeves that were printed with information about their CASA program and a QR Code that linked directly to their website. Patrons enjoying their morning brew were greeted with a subtle yet impactful reminder of the importance of child advocacy. This simple initiative not only spread awareness but also sparked conversations within the community about how individuals can contribute to the cause.

2. Chattahoochee CASA‘s Blue Donut Initiative:

Chattahoochee CASA took a sweet approach to raising awareness by teaming up with a nearby bakery. Throughout Child Abuse Prevention Month, the bakery featured a special blue donut – a symbol of support for victims of child abuse. The bakery also provided informational handouts about the purpose and the CASA program. This collaboration not only satisfied cravings but also served as a reminder that combating child abuse requires community-wide participation.

3. Savannah CASA and the Power of Pinwheels:

Savannah CASA orchestrated a visually striking campaign in collaboration with the Savannah Bananas baseball team. On game day, the stadium was adorned with blue pinwheels, each representing a child in foster care in their community. Volunteers stationed around the stadium distributed brochures detailing the CASA program’s mission and how individuals could get involved. This initiative not only captured the attention of sports enthusiasts but also underscored the collective responsibility to protect children from harm.

As Child Abuse Prevention Month approaches, consider ways you can connect with your community to increase awareness. By harnessing the power of community collaboration, CASA programs have succeeded in amplifying their message and fostering a culture of vigilance and support for children in vulnerable situations.

Do you have a strategy that has worked for you? Share it in the comments!