Child abuse prevention is everyone's business Published April 10, 2008 By Jerome Ellis Family advocacy outreach manager SEYMOUR JOHNSON AIR FORCE BASE, N.C. -- April is the month when military family advocacy programs, local and federal agencies, and citizens across the nation focus special attention on child abuse prevention. The designated theme reflects a special emphasis to each of us, as everyday citizens, that the prevention of child abuse must begin as a personal priority and commitment. The question of who is responsible for prevention of child abuse is ever present. Is it the child protection agency? Law enforcement? Family advocacy organizations? The parents? An African proverb says "It takes a village to raise a child." The observance of child abuse prevention month gives each of us individually and all of us together the opportunity to promote the best for optimal childhood. Supporting the personal development, health, wellness and well-being of our children, youth and teens is imperative to the strength and stability of healthy communities. Children are our future and as such our most precious community asset. Family advocacy program education, training, family information fairs, clinical intervention activities, prevention initiatives, consultations and briefings are just some of the ways we encourage the investment of formal agencies and community members alike. Child abuse prevention month initiatives promote consistent messages for advocacy, education and action. The goal is for our homes and communities to nurture the healthy development of children. Community wellness requires collective competence and shared responsibility. It is our duty to do all that we can do to support the well-being of children, youth and teens. Child abuse prevention is everybody's business.