The annual STAND Against Child Abuse event will return on April 11, offering free family-friendly activities and vital resources to raise awareness about child abuse prevention.
Hosted on the front lawn of Kentucky Wesleyan College, the event will run from 3:30-6 p.m. and will feature dozens of community partners focused on supporting the well-being of children and families. Attractions include a bounce house, petting zoo, face painting, food, and giveaways.
“The STAND is a great event for the whole family,” said Maria Shyver, Community Collaboration for Children (CCC) program administrator with the Green River Area Development District (GRADD). “Everyone has a fun time while also getting resources about preventing child abuse and neglect. We are grateful to our community partners who help make the STAND possible by bringing information and fun activities.”
STAND is organized by GRADD’s CCC Regional Network and the Kentucky Cabinet for Health & Family Services’ Department for Community Based Services. It coincides with April’s observance of Child Abuse Prevention Month.
The Daviess County Fiscal Court will recognize the month with a proclamation on April 9 at 12:30 p.m., also on the front lawn of Kentucky Wesleyan. Following the proclamation, students from Owensboro Innovation Academy will plant pinwheels along Frederica Street as a symbol of hope and awareness.
While the STAND event focuses on prevention and education, it also serves as a time to honor children lost to or harmed by abuse and neglect.
Anyone who suspects abuse or neglect is encouraged to report it anonymously by calling the Kentucky Child Protection Hotline at 1-877-597-2331 or by contacting local law enforcement.
Event sponsors include Five Star Food Services, Independence Bank, Specialty Foods Group, Sunrise Children’s Services, and Owensboro Health.
