Springfield, IL (CHAMBANA TODAY) – The Illinois Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) will officially kick off Child Abuse Prevention Month on Thursday, April 2, with a press conference and pinwheel planting ceremony at HSHS St. John’s Hospital Pavilion in Springfield. The event will mark the beginning of a statewide effort to raise awareness about child abuse and neglect prevention, with a series of events planned throughout April.

This year’s theme, Pinwheels of Possibility, will emphasize the boundless potential of children and families when communities come together to support and protect them. The planting of pinwheels, each symbolizing a child’s future, will serve as a visual reminder of the shared responsibility to ensure that every child grows up in a safe, nurturing environment.

The ceremony will be attended by elected officials, child welfare professionals, and local advocates. It will be streamed live to reach an even broader audience across the state. The event will feature powerful speeches about the importance of prevention and early intervention, focusing on the role communities play in supporting families before challenges escalate.

Heidi E. Mueller, Director of Illinois DCFS, will speak at the event. “Every young person deserves to grow up in a safe and loving home, and this year’s theme speaks to the heart of our department’s mission: to promote the safety and well-being of children, youth and families; provide family-centered care; and connect families to the resources they need.”

In addition to the Springfield event, press conferences will take place in Chicago, Wood River, and Carterville, and an art exhibit will open in Aurora, showcasing artwork created by children currently in care and local artists. These events will bring further attention to the ongoing need for community support and prevention efforts throughout the state.

Tarra Winters, Executive Director of Prevent Child Abuse Illinois, will also participate, emphasizing, “every child is born full of promise, and families are the experts on what their children need. When we listen to families and invest in prevention, we open the door to safer, healthier futures for children and communities.”

Illinois residents are encouraged to join the movement by wearing blue on April 10 and sharing photos on social media with the hashtags #GreatChildhoods and #GoBlueIllinois. This simple act of solidarity will demonstrate a commitment to ending child abuse and ensuring a brighter future for all children.

For more information on upcoming events and how you can get involved, visit the DCFS website or visit the Child Abuse Prevention Month calendar for statewide activities. To report suspected child abuse or neglect, residents can visit DCFS Online Reporting or call the DCFS Child Abuse and Neglect Hotline at 1-800-252-2873.