24 Mar Child Abuse Prevention Month: Kosair Charities Face It Movement Events, Resources, and More

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: MARCH 24, 2022

Louisville, KY – April is Child Abuse Prevention Month, an important time to remember that everyone has a role to play in keeping communities safe for kids to grow and thrive.

The Face It Movement, an initiative founded and funded by Kosair Charities, directly addresses the unacceptable incidences of child abuse and neglect in Kentucky by promoting best practices in child abuse prevention and intervention, building awareness and engaging the community, and advocating for effective policies to improve the child welfare system.

“With our over 120 community partners across the Commonwealth, Face It works every day to raise awareness about the unacceptable incidences of child maltreatment. We are also steadfast in our efforts to bring attention to the many ways – from small acts of kindness to supporting positive parenting programs to advocating in Frankfort – that we can each play a role in preventing harm from ever happening to a child. If we are to end this epidemic of maltreatment, all of us must step up,” said Ken Reiss, Chairman of the Board, Kosair Charities.

According to the latest federal Child Maltreatment Report, Kentucky now has the 5th highest victimization rate in the nation of child abuse and neglect, compared to 1st for three years prior. While this trend of improvement is noteworthy, many factors influence this data, including less reporting entities observing children during COVID-19 quarantine periods. It is important to continue identifying risk factors and promoting policies and programs that will boost efforts to protect children and support families.

“One child that comes into our hospital harmed is one child too many. Every adult should recognize the signs of abuse and how to report concerns. At the same time, we should all be willing to offer a helping hand to parents struggling to care for their children, and perhaps working outside the home, as well, while balancing the ongoing challenges of the pandemic. The most common risk factors include domestic violence, drug misuse, and untreated or undiagnosed mental health issues,” said Dr. Melissa Currie, Chief, Norton Children’s Pediatric Protection Specialists, and Kosair Charities Professor and Endowed Chair for Pediatric Forensic Medicine, University of Louisville School of Medicine.

During the month of April, Face It will be hosting a series of events and trainings, sharing free resources, promoting child safety tips and family engagement ideas, and more. Schedule of public events:

• Monday, March 28 at 12:00 PM EST: Kick-Off to Child Abuse Prevention Month with Kosair Charities Face It Movement (watch via Facebook Live)

• Tuesday, April 12 at 10:00 AM EST: Courageous Conversations Panel Discussion – Join us for a virtual panel conversation about reporting child abuse and neglect in Kentucky. Relationship building with caregivers is an effective tool for crisis prevention, but how and when do mandated reporters talk to families first? The discussion will focus on the components of reporting: when to engage, how to help navigate supports, and when reporting may still be necessary if you have concerns about child safety. Details and registration here.

• Thursday, April 28 at 12:00 PM EST: Survivor’s Healing Journey – Join Face It and Family & Children’s Place as we hold virtual space for survivors of child abuse. We know that healing looks different for everyone, and the journey is not necessarily linear. We will hear from survivors about their healing journey and ways to support them, both individually and as a community. Details and registration here.

Many of Face It’s partner organizations are also hosting events throughout April. Check out an overview of Face It’s Child Abuse Prevention Month efforts, the calendar of events, and ways to take action throughout the month at faceitabuse.org/capm.

Every adult in Kentucky is a mandated reporter of child abuse and neglect. If you suspect child maltreatment, make a report to Child Protective Services at 1-877-KYSAFE1 (1-877-597-2331).

Follow along with the Face It Movement throughout Child Abuse Prevention Month on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

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About the Face It® Movement
The Face It® Movement launched in 2013 as an initiative led by Kosair Charities® in response to the number of child abuse deaths in the Commonwealth. Face It focuses on a three-pronged approach to addressing child abuse and neglect: promote best practices in child abuse prevention and intervention, build awareness and engage the community, and advocate for effective policies to improve the child welfare system. Learn more at faceitmovement.org.

About Kosair Charities® 
Kosair Charities enhances the health and well-being of children by delivering financial support for healthcare, research, education, social services, and child advocacy. We envision a world in which children in need live life to the fullest. For more information, please visit kosair.org.