Dear Friends,


As the vibrant colors of spring bloom around us, we are reminded of the importance of nurturing and protecting our most precious resource: our children. April is Child Abuse Prevention Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness, supporting families, and advocating for the safety and well-being of every child.


This year, our theme is “Building Together: Prevention in Partnership.” We believe that by uniting our efforts and working collaboratively, we can create strong and resilient families and communities where children can thrive.

Partnerships come in many forms, from local grassroots initiatives to statewide collaborations. Each of us brings unique perspectives, resources, and expertise to the table, enriching our collective efforts and maximizing our impact. Prevent Child Abuse Illinois is grateful for our partners and everyone working to prevent child abuse and neglect. Prevention happens in partnership and together we can build bright and safe futures for Illinois children.


Sincerely,




Tarra Winters
Executive Director
Prevent Child Abuse Illinois

Don't miss out on the latest updates from The Power to Prevent Podcast! In our recent episode, we explored the significance of Child Abuse Prevention Month, shedding light on its history and importance.


Get ready for our upcoming episode, where we'll go over the critical topic of Child Sexual Abuse Prevention. Stay informed, empowered, and join us in our mission to prevent child abuse and neglect.


Subscribe now to be the first to listen!

May is Maternal Mental Health Awareness Month! PCA Illinois will be providing a webinar on May 13th about perinatal mental health, designed for professionals and parents.  



This webinar will provide comprehensive insights into perinatal mood disorders, their impact on individuals and families, effective prevention, and community care strategies. We will explore the fundamentals, signs, and symptoms of perinatal mood disorders, their connection to child mistreatment, and research-based interventions to promote healthy parent-child relationships. Participants will also learn about early identification, screening tools, and the role of professionals and support networks in fostering resilience in perinatal individuals.

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REGISTER FOR THE WEBINAR

Below are resources to learn more about this important topic:


If you'd like more information or are interested in scheduling a training, contact Rachel at rchruszczyk@pcaillinois.org

Support Early Childhood Block Grant


The Early Childhood Block Grant (ECBG) is designed to financially support early childhood programs in Illinois. The funds are versatile, allowing for the development and enhancement of early childhood education, improving staff training and qualifications, and building the necessary infrastructure for quality education in these crucial early years. Governor Pritzker’s FY25 budget proposal calls for an additional $75 million, or 11.1% increase, to ECBG funds. This boost in funding aims to create 5,000 new preschool slots, focusing on high-priority populations and improving the Prevention Initiative (PI) program. In addition, increased funding is intended to strengthen support for the early childhood workforce, particularly in caring for infants and toddlers.

 

Make your voice heard, let members know they must support Illinois’ children, families and providers by supporting a $75 million increase to ECBG funds.


Click here to send a witness slip in support of a $75 million increase to ECBG funds today!

Shining a Light on Child Abuse Prevention: Capturing Moments from Kick-Off Events and Wear Blue Day

National Day of Giving April 23, 2024

April 23rd is National Day of Giving! Join us in making a difference and help us in creating brighter futures for kids through our proven work in child abuse prevention. Every donation helps us provide crucial support to children and families. Donate to PCA Illinois to make a donation on Tuesday, April 23rd!

Upcoming Webinars, Trainings, and Events

Click below to register!


Save the Date!

  • Shaken Baby Syndrome Webinar - Thursday, May 23rd
  • Creating Affirming Learning Environments Webinar - Monday, June 17th
  • The Downtown Springfield Family Funfest - Saturday, September 7th
  • 30th Annual PCA Illinois Statewide Conference (Springfield) - October 17th & 18th
528 S. 5th Street; Suite 211, Springfield, IL 62701
Phone: 217.522.1129
Fax: 217.522.0655
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