April is Child Abuse Prevention Month in Cherokee County

Cherokee County, AL — April is recognized as Child Abuse Prevention Month, a time to raise awareness about the importance of protecting children and ensuring every child grows up in a safe, nurturing environment. This observance highlights the community’s
shared responsibility to prevent abuse and strengthen families.

The Cherokee County Child Advocacy Center (CAC) plays a vital role in these efforts by providing coordinated services to children who have experienced abuse or trauma, as well as implementing prevention programs that educate and empower families. Supporting the local CAC prevention program is one important way the community can take an active role in reducing abuse and fostering healthy childhoods.

“Every child deserves to be loved, nurtured, and free from abuse,” said Lori Harris, Executive Director. “When children are safe and supported, they are given the opportunity to grow, succeed, and reach their full potential. Prevention is key, and it takes all of us working together to make that a reality.”

April’s observance will include awareness campaigns, educational opportunities, and community initiatives, including the annual proclamation signing, Blue Sunday Day of Prayer, the annual shirt campaign, and the CAC’s annual Save Jane event.

The annual proclamation signing will take place on Thursday, April 9, 2026, at the Cherokee County Chamber of Commerce breakfast. Blue Sunday will be observed on Sunday, April 26, 2026, when local churches unite in prayer for children who have experienced abuse and for those who work to protect them.

The T-shirt campaign encourages community members to wear blue in support of child abuse prevention, helping raise awareness and show solidarity with children and families.

The Save Jane event is a somber, reflective ceremony where the CAC reads the names of over 250 children as Jane or John Doe to protect their identities. This year, Save Jane will be held on Friday, May 1, 2026, at 1:00 p.m., following the ribbon cutting for the new courthouse. This event honors the children who have been impacted by abuse in Cherokee County and serves as a reminder of the ongoing need for prevention and community support.

Residents are encouraged to support child abuse prevention throughout the month by learning the signs of abuse, participating in local events, and supporting the CAC’s prevention programs to help create safe, nurturing environments for every child.