Photo By Jason Ragucci | There was a planting of pinwheels event near the entrance to the Soldier Support...... read more read more
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FORT BRAGG, N.C. - April is Child Abuse Prevention Month, a time when the Department of Defense and Military OneSource recognize the importance of protecting children and supporting families. Fort Bragg is taking part by hosting events and spreading awareness throughout the military community. Angielina Villafane, the Army Community Service Family Advocacy Program Manager, and her team of professional are leading the efforts to promote education and resources for child abuse prevention.
Garrison Commander, Col. Chad Mixon, and Garrison Command Sgt. Maj. Daniel Scott, signed a proclamation declaring April as Child Abuse Prevention Month on March 31. The proclamation stressed that child abuse in any form—physical, emotional, sexual, or neglect—has lasting effects and is unacceptable within military families. Leaders at Fort Bragg aim to highlight the importance of creating safe spaces for children and supporting families.
"Raising awareness isn't just a campaign—it's a call to action to protect the most vulnerable members of our community,” said Mixon.
This year’s theme is “MilParents Rock,” with the tagline “Rock-Solid Families Start Here.” The theme highlights the strength of military parents when supported by good information, strong communities, and helpful resources.
“Knowing, ‘I’m not alone,’ makes a big difference as a parent,” Villafane noted.
There was a planting of pinwheels event near the entrance to the Soldier Support Center after the proclamation signing. Led by Mixon, this symbolic gesture represents a healthy childhood that every child deserves. Pinwheels, bright and colorful, serve as a visual reminder for the community to unite in preventing abuse and promoting safe environments for children. Villafane explained that these pinwheels are child-friendly and serve as a visual reminder of the community’s commitment to protecting children.
“The pinwheels bring awareness to the cause and represent the safe spaces we want every child to have,” Villafane shared.
The Fort Bragg ACS Family Advocacy Program hosted another special event that involved families in prevention efforts on April 1, at the Main Post Parade Field. Children enjoyed fun activities with members of the Golden Knights and other local support programs, while families received educational materials about abuse prevention. Villafane said the event made helpful resources accessible which engages everyone and benefits our community.
“We want our children to grow up happy, healthy, and safe,” Villafane added. “The pace of military life can make this challenging, but together as a community, we can help children thrive.”
Supporting military parents is a priority throughout Child Abuse Prevention Month. Fort Bragg leaders encourage parents to learn about child development, coping strategies, and building local support networks. These efforts not only strengthen families but also contribute to the readiness and resilience of the entire military community. The DoD recognizes that the well-being of military families plays a crucial role in mission success.
Child Abuse Prevention Month is a chance for everyone to work together to protect kids and build stronger families. For more information or to take part in these efforts, contact the Fort Bragg ACS Family Advocacy Program: (910) 396-5521. To report Child Abuse, call the Fort Bragg Police: (910)396-0391, or the National Child Abuse Hotline: 1-800-422-4453. Together, we can ensure a brighter future for all children.
| Date Taken: | 04.03.2025 |
| Date Posted: | 04.03.2025 12:05 |
| Story ID: | 494480 |
| Location: | FORT BRAGG, NORTH CAROLINA, US |
| Hometown: | FAYETTEVILLE, NORTH CAROLINA, US |
| Web Views: | 24 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
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