Alpine declares April as Child Abuse Prevention Month

A parent circle on Friday focusing on “Developmental Domains” was hosted by Catalyst Community in Alpine County to open the county’s and the Child Abuse Prevention Council’s observation of April as Child Abuse Prevention Month.

“With an unwavering commitment to safeguarding the welfare of children, CAPC is leading the charge in raising awareness and advocating for the prevention of child abuse and neglect in our community,” Alpine spokesman JT Chevallier said. “Every child deserves to grow up in a safe and nurturing environment. free from harm and fear. Unfortunately, the reality is that millions of children worldwide suffer from abuse and neglect each vear. In light of this

troubling reality, CAPC is dedicated to mobilizing the community to take action and protect our most vulnerable members.”

Throughout the month of April, CAPC will be launching a series of initiatives aimed at empowering individuals and communities to prevent child abuse and promote positive parenting practices.

• Visit one of the Little Free Libraries around the county for April and help yourself to a book. CAPC will stock an adult and children's books on Resilience —feel free to borrow, return or keep in your home library.

Locations include: ALC campus outside Catalyst Communitv Office. Bear Valley Lodge hallway between General Store and Sky High Pizza, the Hung A Lel Ti- Inside Woodfords Indian Education Center, Lower level of Red Cliffs Lodge in Kirkwood, Mad Dog Café porch in Woodfords and the Markleeville Library and Post Office.

• Rainbow Awards Dinner, guest speaker and awards 6 p.m. April 17 at Turtle Rock Park Community Building, honoring adults for Making Rainbows in the Lives of Children.

• Create the Good Friday noon April 12, at the Hung A Lel Ti Firehouse for lunch and discussion CAPC member Briana Vallejo from Live Violence Free will present Triple P parenting program information and discuss managing our emotions as parents-caregivers, including how to switch up our thoughts in tough situations and relaxation techniques.

• “Inside Out” Movie & Pizza Night 5:30-7 p.m. April 24 at the Hung A Lel Ti Firehouse. Hosted by Suicide Prevention Network, Health & Wellness Coalition and Alpine County Behavioral Health Services.

• Teddy Bear Parades 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. April 27 at Diamond Valley School “Family fun, fitness and connectedness” All welcome bring your teddy bear (or favorite stuffed animal) and join us for crafts, seed planting, games, parade, music and more. California Highway Patrol will be onsite for car seat inspections and installations- new car seats available on a first come first serve basis. Collect agency resources, make connections and celebrate children. Volunteer bike mechanics will be on site for minor tunes to youth bikes only.