Governor Asa Hutchinson, Department of Human Services Division of Children and Family Services (DCFS) staff, along with many of their community partners, gathered on the steps of the State Capitol to recognize Child Abuse Prevention Month and the fact that we all play a role in helping great childhoods happen. This was one of many events held across the state in April to help Arkansans better understand the different ways they can help prevent child abuse.

“A state like Arkansas has many different missions,” Hutchinson said during his address. “But there’s not a more important mission that we have than the proper care and protection of the children in our state.”

DCFS Director Mischa Martin echoed those sentiments and encouraged everyone to do something in their communities to help build a stronger foundation for our families and children.

“Our theme for the day is ‘Help Great Childhoods Happen’,” Martin commented. “It’s about all of us and how we’re all in it together. Go out and mentor, volunteer, and get involved in your community. Everyone can make a difference.”

One of the people in attendance who is already making a huge difference in his community is State Representative George McGill. He represents District 78, which includes a portion of Sebastian County. His school-based mentoring program – the Golden Knights and Golden Jewels – has proven highly successful at strengthening children and families in his community. Rep. McGill brought nearly 100 fifth- and sixth-grade children from the Fort Smith area, to remind everyone of what and who we’re all working so hard for.

“These children are so proud to be here and to have spent the morning with the governor and directors (DHS Cindy) Gillespie and Martin,” said McGill. “And there are many more just like them – younger children and older children – who could have been here. We’re very proud of the work that they and our mentors and partners are doing to help our young men and women.”

To learn more about DCFS and its efforts to prevent child abuse, visit them on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/archildwelfare.

If you suspect child abuse or neglect, please call the Child Abuse Hotline at   1-800-482-5964.