As April comes to a close, we’re filled with gratitude as we reflect on the impactful events and initiatives that brought our community together to spread awareness throughout Travis County.
As we launched into April, we were honored to stand alongside our partners from the Travis County Sheriff’s Departments and the Department of Health and Human Services on April 2nd. Together, we witnessed the profound moment when April was proclaimed National Child Abuse Awareness Month by the commissioners court in Travis County. The proclamation boldly declared, “A society is judged not by how it serves its most powerful members, but how it protects its most vulnerable members,” reaffirming our unwavering commitment to the protection and well-being of our children.
On April 4th we hosted U.S. Senator John Cornyn’s pivotal roundtable discussion on the Project Safe Childhood Act at the Center. This groundbreaking initiative, aimed at combating child sexual exploitation, united voices from law enforcement, district attorneys, nonprofits, and survivors. It emphasized our unwavering commitment to collaborative action in preventing and addressing child abuse.
April 5th marked the inaugural Protect Austin Kids™ Day that aligned perfectly with National Wear Blue Day! Sporting our blue attire and spreading the word on social media, we felt the strength of our collective efforts in raising awareness. The city joined the excitement too, as six downtown buildings – Austonian, Fairmont, 44East Ave, Fairfield Inn, Long Center, and SkyHouse – lit up in blue, making for an unforgettable Protect Austin Kids™ Day.
On April 22, we were honored to attend a Child Abuse Prevention Reception at the Department of Health and Human Services. A special gathering dedicated to honoring the professionals and volunteers who tirelessly advocate for children and families. It was an uplifting experience where we had the privilege to hear from Laura Peveto from Travis County Health & Human Services, Sheriff Sally Hernandez from Travis County Sheriff’s Office, 126th Civil District Court Judge Aurora Martinez Jones, and our very own Amanda Van Hoozer. Their heartfelt messages emphasized the importance of community in the fight against child abuse, filling us with hope and determination and the reminder that every month is Child Abuse Prevention Month.
Together, we can continue to make a difference in the lives of our children and build a community where every child thrives in Travis County.
