April marks National Child Abuse Prevention Month, a time to raise awareness about the mistreatment of vulnerable children and to honor those working to create safe, supportive environments for them. At least 1 in 7 children have experienced abuse or neglect nationwide in the last year. On March 25th, 217 children were actively involved in the child welfare system in Monroe County. Many of these children are in
desperate need of stable, nurturing relationships to help them heal and thrive. Monroe County CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates) is dedicated to supporting these children by empowering volunteers to advocate for their best interests. CASA volunteers ensure that children in the child welfare system receive the attention, resources, and support they deserve, playing a vital role in helping these children overcome the challenges they face.
Monroe County CASA believes in the power of communities to create positive change. This year, CASA is partnering with Bloomington Transit, as well as other Monroe County businesses, to Go Blue for Child Abuse Prevention. From April 7th through the 12th, Bloomington Transit will illuminate its transit station in blue to raise awareness. The Commission on the Status of Youth and Children, Bloomington City Hall, Boys & Girls Club of Bloomington, Monroe County Health Department, Brightside Cafe, Friends of Monroe County Publick Library Bookstore, Monroe County YMCA, Unitarian Universalist Church, Redeemer Church, Soma, Morgenstern Books, The Warehouse, Lotus Blossoms Family Day, DCS, People’s State Bank (17th St.), Comprehensive Financial Consultants, Mallor Grodner, Banneker Center, IU Credit Union (Winslow location), Ellettsville Police Department and Bloomington Police Department will offer blue ribbon pins and prevention information to their guests and/or share them with their staff. If any business or organization would like to display a basket of pins and prevention information, please email .
Community members are also encouraged to wear blue on April 11th and join CASA, along with other service providers, at the Department of Child Services Child Abuse Awareness Event from 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. during Food Truck Friday at Switchyard Park. This event will provide an opportunity to learn more about the issue of child abuse and the ways individuals can make a difference in our community.
Monroe County CASA is calling on the community to join in the effort to create lasting change for children in need.
To learn more about child abuse prevention, please visit Prevent Child Abuse America.
To learn more about getting involved with CASA, visit our website.