In recognition of Child Abuse Prevention Month 2025, the Warren County Health Department, Department of Social Services, and Child Fatality Team joined forces with Positive Childhood Alliance NC (PCANC) and partners statewide to amplify this year’s theme: “Powered by Hope, Strengthened by Prevention.”

This important campaign highlights a collective vision: every child and family deserves to live a purposeful, joyful life—filled with opportunity and hope for the future. Prevention starts with ensuring families have access to the support, resources, and community connections they need to thrive.

Prioritizing Prevention for Stronger Families

“Every child deserves the opportunity to thrive, and every family deserves the support to build a strong foundation for their children,” said Dr. Margaret F. Brake, Health Director for Warren County. “It takes all of us—from business leaders to educators to community advocates—to create environments where children can reach their full potential.”

Guest speaker, Jessica Fowler led the Lunch & Learn Session on “Understanding Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACES)” on April 4, 2025 at the Warren County Memorial Library and hosted by the Warren County Child Fatality Team. / Submitted Photo

Community Events That Brought Awareness to Action

Throughout April, Warren County led a series of events to engage residents and raise awareness about child abuse prevention:

💙 “Go Blue” Day – April 4, 2025
Residents and local government staff wore blue, the official color of Child Abuse Prevention Month, in a show of solidarity. Photos and prevention messages flooded social media as a visible reminder of the community’s commitment to protecting children.

📚 Lunch & Learn: Understanding ACEs
Hosted by the Warren County Child Fatality Team, a Lunch & Learn event was held at Warren County Memorial Library on April 4. Jessica Fowler, a featured guest speaker, presented on Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) and their long-term impacts on health and well-being. Thirty-five attendees participated, learning how ACEs can be addressed through trauma-informed care and community support.

🌱Pinwheel Planting
Pinwheels, a national symbol of childlike joy and safety, were planted at the entrances of the Health Department and Department of Social Services. The display served as a reminder that all children deserve to grow up in safe, nurturing environments where they can flourish.

Building a Brighter Future for Warren County’s Children

Warren County’s observance of Child Abuse Prevention Month is a local part of a larger movement to prevent child maltreatment, promote protective factors, and foster healthy childhoods across North Carolina.

Together, we can help families before a challenge becomes a crisis—because prevention is possible, and hope is powerful.

For more information about prevention efforts or to get involved, visit Positive Childhood Alliance NC (PCANC)