Effingham County, IL — Each April, communities nationwide recognize Child Abuse Prevention Month, a time dedicated to promoting the wellbeing of children and strengthening families. Crisis Nursery of Effingham County (CNEC) encourages residents to join in raising awareness throughout the month.

How the Community Can Participate
CNEC invites individuals, businesses, and organizations to show support in simple, meaningful ways:

  • Wear blue on Friday, April 3 for Wear Blue Day
  • Plant blue pinwheels at homes or workplaces
  • Display blue lightbulbs
  • Learn about local child and family organizations
  • Share prevention messages on social media
  • Start conversations about the importance of safe, nurturing environments

New Community Partnerships
This year, CNEC is expanding outreach through new awareness efforts.

Thanks to Whitney Roofing, a Child Abuse Prevention Month billboard will appear in Effingham featuring artwork from a local student responding to the prompt “I am strong because…”. This project uplifts children’s voices and encourages reflection on how communities can support strong families.

CNEC is also partnering with SAFE to create blue and teal bows displayed throughout downtown—blue representing Child Abuse Prevention Month and teal representing Sexual Assault Awareness Month.

Introducing the Imprint of Hope Award
April marks the launch of the Imprint of Hope Award, an annual recognition honoring an Effingham County nonprofit demonstrating exceptional dedication to keeping children safe and families strong. Community members can vote by scanning the QR code or visiting: https://forms.office.com/r/cZNVhJ5XXi?origin=lprLink. Voting opens Monday, March 16, 2026.

The award’s featured artwork—“Nursery Wishes and Dandelion Kisses”—was created by artist Dannielle Kingery‑Harden with the help of children and adults whose fingerprints complete the design.

Join the Movement
CNEC encourages all residents to take part in prevention efforts and help ensure every child has the chance to thrive.

To contact the Crisis Nursery of Effingham County, email ad@crisisnurseryofeffingham.com or call (217) 342-3000 x3.