To the editor:

April reminds us of our shared responsibility for the well-being and healthy development of children and families, which is crucial for the future health of Kansas. National Child Abuse Prevention (CAP) Month is a perfect time to emphasize that prevention thrives on collaboration. This year’s theme, “Building A Hopeful Future, Together,” emphasizes unity in fostering hope for families. As the Kansas chapter of Prevent Child Abuse America, Kansas Children’s Service League (KCSL) leads this campaign and initiatives to promote hope through collaborative efforts and primary prevention strategies. However, this endeavor requires a community-wide commitment.

Prevention is hard work, but it is also heart work. Each of us plays a crucial role in ensuring children thrive and families receive timely support, long before crises arise. Listen to families and lift them up. Volunteer at after-school programs or support organizations like KCSL that are focused on prevention. We can collectively uplift families and lay the groundwork for a hopeful future.

Let us heed the call to action this April and beyond. Together, we can champion positive childhood experiences to build healthy families and strong communities.

Gail Cozadd

CEO Kansas Children’s Service League