Children’s Trust Fund to Stage State Capitol Rally

Child abuse awareness advocates will plant silver and blue pinwheels in the ground and rally at the state Capitol on April 22 during Prevention Awareness Day. The rally’s theme, “The Power of One,” encourages Michigan residents to become involved by doing one small or large act to help protect children from abuse and neglect.

The rally features a number of notable speakers and entertainment. This will be followed by a procession and the planting of a “pinwheel garden” to show support of child abuse prevention programs in the state. The pinwheel is the national symbol of child abuse and neglect prevention.

Gov. Rick Snyder has proclaimed April Child Abuse Prevention Month in Michigan. Last year, 33,970 children were reportedly abused or neglected in Michigan. When we invest in healthy child development, we invest in community and economic development, as flourishing children become the foundation of a thriving society.

The event starts at 11 a.m. Tuesday on the east steps of the state Capitol building in Lansing.

Speakers include:

Michael Foley, executive director, Children’s Trust Fund

Maura D. Corrigan, director, Michigan Department of Human Services

First Lady Sue Snyder

State Sen. Randy Richardville of Monroe

State Sen. Gretchen Whitmer of Lansing

Lori M. Wortz, chairperson, Children’s Trust Fund Board of Directors

Stanley Chase, Lansing Exchange Club

Susan Cherry, educator and trainer