DOBBINS AIR RESERVE BASE, Ga. -- Each April the U.S. Air Force Reserve observes Child Abuse and Neglect Prevention Month, a time to raise awareness about the importance of protecting children from harm and promoting their well-being.
On April 26, Col. Carl Magnusson, 94th Airlift Wing commander, signed proclamation recognizing April as Child Abuse and Neglect Prevention Month on Dobbins Air Reserve Base.
In doing so, Col. Magnusson called upon all commanders, Chief Master Sergeants, First Sergeants and leaders to do their part in preventing child abuse and neglect. The proclamation also called upon parents, guardians, and caregivers of children affiliated with Dobbins ARB to seek assistance and support when or if needed and to take advantage of the installation’s many resources available to ensure children experience a safe and harm-free childhood.
Throughout the month, organizations and individuals at Dobbins ARB and Cobb County participated in various activities and events aimed at preventing child abuse and neglect.
One such event was the “Pinwheels for Prevention” campaign, in which the Dobbins ARB Violence Prevention Office, with the assistance of Cobb Collaborative, distributed blue and silver pinwheels across the installation. The campaign, organized by Prevent Child Abuse America, involves the planting of blue and silver pinwheels in public spaces to symbolize the happy, carefree childhood that all children deserve.
The 94th AW and 22nd Air Force also partnered together to host National Bring Your Child to Work Day, where pinwheels were distributed to the children shadowing their parents.
In addition to raising awareness, Child Abuse and Neglect Prevention Month serves as a reminder of the crucial role that each of us can play in preventing child abuse and neglect within the Department of Defense and the U.S. Air Force. By staying informed, speaking out when we see something concerning, and supporting families in our communities, we can work together to create a world where all children are safe, healthy, and thriving.
If you are aware or suspect child abuse or neglect:
- call 911 for any child in immediate danger
- call the Family Advocacy Program at Robins Air Force Base 478-327-8398
- call the Department of Family and Children Services at 1-855-GACHILD (1-855-422-4453)
- contact the Dobbins Air Reserve Base Violence Prevention Office via phone at 678-655-5680 or via email at 94AW.VPI.ViolencePrevention@us.af.mil