John A. Logan College recognizes Child Abuse Prevention Month

Join the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services, Prevent Child Abuse Illinois, and the Poshard Foundation for Abused Children during April's Child Abuse Prevention Month.

The Carterville kickoff event takes place at 1 p.m.  Friday, March 31, at John A. Logan College (Building H Atrium), 700 Logan College Drive, Carterville.

This year's theme, "Building Together, Prevention in Partnership," is a call to recognize that everyone in the community has a role to play in ensuring children grow up safe and loved, and that families have the resources they need to thrive.

"Every day our dedicated team of professionals works tirelessly not only to respond to reports of abuse and neglect but also to provide access to services to parents who need them," said Illinois DCFS Director Marc D. Smith.

To heighten awareness, Illinois DCFS will host events across the state. All Illinoisans can get involved and show their commitment to ending child abuse by wearing blue on April 7, posting pictures on social media, tagging DCFS in their posts, and using the hashtags #GreatChildhoods and #GoBlueIllinois.

Watch the livestream: www.facebook.com/preventchildabuseillinois/

In an emergency, call the DCFS Child Abuse and Neglect Hotline at 1-800-25-ABUSE (800-252-2873). Calls and online reports can be made 24 hours a day.