Local Non-Profit Kicks Off Child Abuse Awareness Month

During the month of April, It’s Our Little Secret (IOLS)  www.itsourlittlesecret.org, a non-profit charity operating in McHenry County,  invites civic organizations and community members to participate in activates geared toward raising awareness about child abuse and resources available to promote strong families.

As part of the month-long effort, IOLS has launched their Blue Ribbon campaign geared to promoting this cause. Students of the Social Science Club of McHenry County College pledged their support by organizing a blue ribbon tree decorating event and hosting a fundraiser at the school. Community libraries have also been supportive by providing materials to promote the, “Art for Healing” art contest geared for kids.

Additionally, mayors in Huntley, Woodstock, Crystal Lake and Cary have all issued formal proclamations declaring April as Child Abuse Prevention Month in their respective communities.

Child abuse impacts every facet of a community, including imposing a financial strain that is preventable. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recently reported that the cost of child abuse nationally is $124 billion, equal to the costs of stroke and heart disease1. Researchers from the CDC analyzed 1,740 fatal and 579,000 nonfatal cases of child maltreatment over the course of one year and found that the lifetime cost for each victim of nonfatal child maltreatment was $210,012.

IOLS is helping to combat the causes of child abuse and support victims through education and empowerment programs that engage the larger community.

Area residents are invited to participate by accessing resources on the group’s website www.itsourlittlesecret.org and in a family event, 2nd Annual 5 K Run/Walk, “Race for Change,” to be held on April 29 at Deicke Park, 11419 Illinois 47 in Huntley, IL. Space is still available for those interested in participating or helping to sponsor this event.

Information provided by Kerri Barber, IOLS Volunteer