Child Abuse Prevention Month focuses on community support

April is Child Abuse Prevention Month. This year’s theme is “It Takes a Community.”

Many children experience abuse or neglect and may be unaware their lives can be different. In 2025, the agency investigated more than 103 reports alleging abuse or neglect.

The goal is to reduce abuse through prevention efforts by community members and combined services from counseling agencies, law enforcement, schools and others who invest time and support in the lives of children.

The community is encouraged to wear blue April 8 to raise awareness of child abuse and neglect prevention.

Carroll County Job and Family Services hopes children will find stability, safety and happiness now that will continue into their futures. Caseworkers partner with families to build on strengths, address concerns and reduce the risk of child abuse and neglect. Caseworkers also refer families to supportive services, including mental health providers, community resources and juvenile court.

In a generation of email, cellphones and social networking, it can be easy to lose sight of what it means to be an involved member of the community. Parenting is an important — and difficult — job. When communities come together to help one another on a personal level, it supports a better future for children and society.

Another way to help is by becoming a foster parent. Sometimes families need temporary help caring for their children while they focus on strengthening the household. Foster families are needed to provide temporary homes for children in the community.

To inquire about becoming a foster parent or to make a report of abuse or neglect, call 330-627-2571. Reports also can be made after hours by calling the Sheriff’s Office at 330-627-2141.