Child Abuse Prevention Month has been observed each April since its first presidential proclamation in 1983, and millions of Americans have participated in the public awareness program that all children deserve to grow up in happy and healthy environments.

GFWC Illinois Polo Women’s Club partners with Prevent Child Abuse Illinois to spread the message that everyone can help promote great childhoods in their community. Pinwheels (blue and silver) are nationally recognized symbols of child abuse prevention and symbolize hope.

The Polo Women’s Club brings public awareness by annually planting blue and silver pinwheel gardens at the Paul Grahling Park (Division and Mason) each April.

This year, pinwheels were planted with Mayor Mark Scholl reading a statement about the program and how Polo Women’s Club supports this annual event. At the next city council meeting on April 6, a proclamation from the city of Polo recognizing April as Child Abuse Prevention Month will be on the agenda.

With awareness, education and support, the community working together can have an impact on preventing child abuse. As a reminder, the simple pinwheel should compel us to report suspected abuse (1-800-25-ABUSE) and protect all children.

Resources for help: Prevent Child Abuse Illinois (1-800-252-2873), HOPE of Ogle County Domestic Abuse Agency (815-562-8890) and Shining Star Children’s Advocacy Center (815-284-1891).