April declared Child Abuse Prevention Month in Lake County

Apr. 11—The Lake County commissioners have once again passed a resolution declaring April Child Abuse Prevention Month in the county, coinciding with the national observance that began in 1983.

The designation, rooted in communities working together, serves to acknowledge, prevent and raise awareness to ensure children and families are provided with the support they need.

"Child abuse and neglect occurs across all cultures, races, and socioeconomic groups, and we are not immune to this issue in Lake County," said Lake County Department of Jobs and Family Services Director Suzanne Casar.

The department, she added, has the responsibility and authority to provide services to children residing in Lake County.

In 2023, staff with the JFS Children Services Division responded to over 1,500 calls regarding child safety and worked with about 1,000 children who presented a variety of issues that could not be easily resolved, requiring the assistance of the agency.

"We remain grateful to the concerned citizens and mandated reporters who call our child abuse hotline to report concerns," Casar said. "We also thank our many community partners who assist our agency every day in the difficult work we do helping children and families."

In promotion of the month, JFS reaches out to cities, townships and villages requesting that their respective councils and trustees pass resolutions recognizing Child Abuse Prevention Month.

At the start of the month, the department also began providing blue wristbands and ribbon pins to community members and organizations.

"We ask all of Lake County Job to help JFS in this important work — if you see something, say something," said Commissioner John Plecnik. "It may not benefit you personally, but you have to be the voice for the voiceless."

On April 10, staff in the department once again participated in the statewide "Wear Blue to Work Day" initiative while planting 1,000 blue pinwheels in front of the JFS building, a symbolic act that officials said serves as a reminder that all children deserve to grow up in a healthy, safe and nurturing environment.

"Child Abuse Prevention Month is a reminder that we must remain vigilant in protecting our most vulnerable members of society," said Commissioner John Hamercheck. "Let's stand together and make a difference."

Commissioner Richard Regovich emphasized that prevention remains everyone's responsibility.

"Let's educate ourselves and take action to create a safer world," he added. "Thank you, Suzanne, and all the JFS staff for the incredible job they do to protect our children."

Additionally, Lake County JFS provides training for various community and regional groups, such as educators, daycare centers, and mental health agencies.

To receive educational services regarding child abuse and neglect reporting and recognition, contact Mary Udics, assistant administrator of the JFS Child and Adult Protective Services Division, at 440-350-4333.

Anyone who suspects that a child in Lake County is being abused or neglected should report their concerns to the 24-hour child abuse hotline at 440-350-4000, press 1.

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