City of Statesville Proclaims Proclaims April as National Child Abuse Prevention Month 2026

City of Statesville, North Carolina

Office of the Mayor

Proclamation

National Child Abuse Prevention Month 2026

April 2026

WHEREAS, child well-being is not just a moral imperative, but the foundation for building Statesville’s future success and prosperity; and

WHEREAS, all children deserve to grow up in environments that offer Positive Childhood Experiences that promote healthy mental, physical, and emotional development; and

WHEREAS, communities that have the resources they need to ensure all families can access supports when they need them, free of judgment or barriers, can reduce the risk of child abuse and neglect, while promoting parental and family resilience; and

WHEREAS, child abuse and neglect are preventable, and the responsibility to help every child meet their full potential lies within every community member, organization, and leader, recognizing that promoting positive experiences for all Statesville families strengthens the future of our city; and

WHEREAS, collaboration among families, educators, early care providers, health care providers, faith-based organizations, local businesses, social services agencies, law enforcement, and community groups are essential for creating the positive environments and experiences children need to lead a healthy, purposeful life with hope for the future, and

WHEREAS, during Child Abuse Prevention Month, we recognize the importance of strengthening families and creating nurturing environments where all children feel supported, connected, and able to thrive.

WHEREAS, the City of Statesville recognizes and deeply appreciates the skill, sacrifice, and professionalism of our public power lineworkers;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, J. Douglas Hendrix, Mayor of the City of Statesville, do hereby proclaim April 2026 as CHILD ABUSE PREVENTION MONTH in Statesville, North Carolina in partnership with Iredell County Department of Social Services, Iredell County Guardian Ad-litems office, Pharos Parenting, Dove House Children’s Advocacy Center, and Iredell County Partnership for Young Children. We urge all citizens to recognize this month by dedicating ourselves to the task of improving the quality of life for all children and families.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF I have set my hand and caused the Great Seal of the City of Statesville to be affixed this 13th day of April 2026.

J. Douglas Hendrix, Mayor

View the proclamation here.