Interview by Angelica Villa and Jayden Jones. Photos provided by DCAC.
April marks Child Abuse Prevention Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness and taking action to protect children from abuse and neglect. With nearly 28,000 cases of child abuse reported in Dallas County last year alone– and many more likely going unreported– the need for prevention and support has never been greater.
The Dallas Children’s Advocacy Center (DCAC) continues to lead the charge in protecting vulnerable children and providing critical services to victims and their families. This month, initiatives like the Pinwheels of Hope campaign serve as powerful reminders of the importance of this mission.
We had the opportunity to speak with Irish Burch, President & CEO of DCAC, about the organization’s work, the significance of Child Abuse Prevention Month, and how the community can come together to make a difference.
Our mission is to improve the lives of child abuse victims and their families while providing national leadership on child abuse issues.
Today, we proudly unveiled the Pinwheels of Hope exhibit—an inspiring, larger-than-life 3D display symbolizing hope and resilience. This exhibit marks the launch of National Child Abuse Prevention Month, reinforcing our commitment to raising awareness and fostering a safer future for children.
As part of the campaign, we encourage individuals to display pinwheel yard signs in their yards—symbolizing their commitment to standing up for children and doing their part to keep them safe.
This weekend, Galleria Good Market will take place on April 4th and 5th at the mall. Families are invited to take photos in front of the mural and engage in interactive activities outside on the plaza near Little Italy. The event will feature age-appropriate toys for children, and DCAC will have a booth to help raise awareness. Additionally, select vendors will donate 10% of sales to support DCAC’s mission.
This campaign is critical because it raises awareness about child abuse and neglect. Last year alone, there were over 28,000 reports of child abuse and neglect. It’s essential for everyone to recognize the signs and understand that child abuse happens in every community, across every zip code. We all share the responsibility of protecting not just our own children, but all children.
Statistics show that 95% of child abuse victims know their abuser. We also know that 73% of these children won’t disclose the abuse within the first year, 45% won’t tell for at least five years, and some may never speak out. That’s why it’s crucial for us as adults to be vigilant—recognizing changes in a child’s behavior, declining grades, or other warning signs—to better protect them.
Last year alone, over 12,000 children and families came through our advocacy center. Our mission is not only to protect children but also to provide the necessary services to help them heal.
The community can get involved in several meaningful ways. During April, you can support our efforts by purchasing a $25 pinwheel, sponsored by Comerica, and displaying it in your yard. Imagine 12,000 pinwheels across Dallas– each one representing a child we’ve helped. It would be a powerful statement of support.
Outside of April, there are plenty of ways to take action. You can volunteer your time, attend one of our many events, or make a donation to help us continue our mission. Every contribution makes a difference.
To purchase a pinwheel, visit www.dcac.org/pinwheels. To learn more about volunteer opportunities, visit www.dcac.org/volunteer. Whether it’s a small gesture or a big commitment, your support helps protect and heal children in our community.
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