Each April, people across the country come together to raise awareness about child abuse and neglect prevention. In Illinois for April 2009, we have adopted the theme "Turning Choices Into Change. Preventing Child Abuse Together!

The only constant in life is change. What change lies ahead depends on the choices we make regarding our everyday actions as part of a community. Our Choices effect Change at the governmental, community and individual level on the systems that support healthy community and family development. These choices include supporting and speaking up for needed services to new parents, to ensure mental health services, to assure families meet their basic human needs, to assure children receive nurturing, loving experiences every day, to protect the health of our children and keep them safe. We can change the way society values and supports the well-being of children and families. We can change society's expectations regarding what are and are not acceptable attitudes and behaviors toward children. We can change the social norm regarding the way children are valued and the ways in which we treat and raise our children. No one can do everything. No one parent, grandparent, teacher, neighbor, elected official, agency, or individual. But everyone can do something. Together, we can advocate for policies and programs which support healthy families and children. Together, we can live in a prosperous society that understands and genuinely values the well-being of children. Together, we can make a difference in the life of a child!

In partnership with the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services, Prevent Child Abuse Illinois implements a Child Abuse Prevention Month campaign that includes statewide activities and provides resources to support the work of community groups. Plans for an exciting Child Abuse Prevention Month 2009 are underway in Illinois. Prevent Child Abuse Illinois is proud to present the elements of its statewide campaign, designed to draw attention to child abuse prevention.