The event will kick off at 7:30 a.m. on Friday, April 4th, 2025, with a CASA burrito breakfast on the 2nd floor of the Prairie Arts Center in North Platte. At 9 a.m., Mayor Brandon Kelliher will read the official Proclamation, marking the beginning of Child Abuse Prevention Month. The burrito breakfast will serve as a community gathering to raise awareness about child abuse prevention.
While addressing child abuse prevention is the core mission of several local organizations, it’s important to remember that Nebraska is a mandatory reporting state. Every citizen has a role to play in recognizing and reporting signs of child abuse and neglect.
During April, the local Child Abuse Prevention Council will promote education and awareness using materials from Bring Up Nebraska. The campaign's signature blue pinwheels symbolize the message of prevention, with blue pinwheels being placed throughout the community as a reminder.
Other planned activities include Dress Blue Fridays, where local businesses are invited to wear blue and take photos with council members to show support for child abuse prevention.
Child abuse and neglect remain serious concerns in Lincoln County. Unfortunately, many children placed in state care are relocated outside of Lincoln County due to a lack of local foster homes. For many children, being removed from their homes is a deeply traumatic experience. Even when placed in loving environments, these children often face unfamiliar and unsettling circumstances.
For more information on April’s activities and resources about Promotive and Protective Factors that support family stability, please visit Lincoln County Children on Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100068537400553
Proclamation Sponsors Include:
• Lincoln County CASA
• Prairie Arts Center
• Lincoln County Child Abuse Prevention Council