This April, the Alexander County Department of Social Services (DSS) joins Positive Childhood Alliance NC (PCANC) and other partners across North Carolina in amplifying a message of hope for strong families and supportive communities where all children can reach their full potential. April is Child Abuse Prevention (CAP) Month, and the 2025 national campaign theme is “Powered by Hope, Strengthened by Prevention.”
At the heart of this campaign is our organizational vision: All children and families are living purposeful and happy lives with hope for the future. To achieve this vision, we must prioritize child maltreatment prevention and work to support families and communities, ensuring that families have the resources, support, and connections they need before challenges become crises.
“Every child deserves the opportunity to thrive, and every family deserves the support to build a strong foundation for their children,” said Keri Jerrell, Alexander County DSS Director. “It takes all of us working together — from business leaders to policymakers to community advocates — to ensure that families have what they need to help their children reach their full potential.”
“For every $10 spent on child welfare in the US, only $1.50 goes toward prevention. We can and must do better,” said Sharon Hirsch, President and CEO of Positive Childhood Alliance North Carolina. “By investing in family resource centers and community-based solutions, we can ensure families have the support they need before challenges become crises. When we shift our focus to prevention, we create a future where all children grow up in safe, stable, and nurturing environments, surrounded by positive experiences and hope.”
Get involved with Child Abuse Prevention Month this April:
• Wear Blue Day on April 4, 2025: Show your support by wearing blue and sharing photos using #WearBlueDay2025 and #PCANC
• Statewide Community Events: Find a community event near you to connect with advocates, families, and leaders to share solutions that work for all families.
• Digital Advocacy Day on April 9, 2025: Take action by urging lawmakers to prioritize policies that strengthen families and communities.
About Positive Childhood Alliance North Carolina
Positive Childhood Alliance North Carolina (PCANC) connects organizations and individuals with what they need to help children and families meet their full potential. Founded in 1979 (as Prevent Child Abuse North Carolina), PCANC has demonstrated 46 years of commitment to nurturing positive childhoods for all. Through data-driven coaching, professional development, advocacy efforts and building public understanding, PCANC strives to build and share solutions that work for all families.