Cabarrus Today

April is designated as Child Abuse Awareness Month, a time dedicated to public awareness about the prevalence of child abuse and honoring those it touches. On Wednesday, April 23rd, a Pinwheel Ceremony will take place from 1:00 p.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the Cabarrus County Courthouse Plaza in Concord, North Carolina. The event aims to raise awareness for child abuse victims and support their protection and healing. Paula Yost, Chair of the Cabarrus County Child Protection Team, stated, “One of the biggest dangers to public health is childhood trauma. Our team works together to reduce physical and emotional damage to children. Taking care of our kids creates a happier, healthier society where everyone.”

Remarks will be delivered by local agency representatives and community leaders. Afterward, pinwheels, a national symbol of child abuse prevention, will be planted throughout the county. District Attorney Ashlie Shanley noted, “During the Pinwheel ceremony, we invite the community to stand with us as we raise awareness of child abuse and work to prevent it."

Participants are encouraged to wear blue as a show of solidarity against child abuse. They are also invited to take photos with any blue pinwheel they encounter and share them on social media using the hashtag #CabCoProtects2025 to spread the message throughout the community.

The organization Prevent Child Abuse is dedicated to preventing abuse and advancing children's rights. They collaborate with local agencies, schools, and leaders to raise awareness, advocate for protective policies, and support programs promoting healthy childhood development. For more details, visit www.preventchildabuse.org.