WHEREAS, preventing child abuse and neglect is a community problem affecting both the current and future quality of life of Polk County;
WHEREAS, child maltreatment occurs when people find themselves in stressful situations, with community resources, and do not know how to cope;
WHEREAS, the majority of child abuse and neglect cases stem from situations and conditions that are preventable in an engaged and supportive community;
WHEREAS, child abuse and neglect can be prevented by making sure each family has the support they need to raise their children in a healthy environment;
WHEREAS, child abuse and neglect not only causes immediate harm to children, but are also proven to increase the likelihood of criminal behavior, substance abuse, health problems and risky behavior;
WHEREAS, all citizens should become involved to provide safe, nurturing environments for children in all areas of their lives – at home, at school, and in the community – offering them the opportunity to grow up to be caring, contributing members of the community;
WHEREAS, effective child abuse and neglect prevention programs proceed because of partnerships created among social service agencies, schools, faith communities, civic organizations, law enforcement agencies and the business community;
NOW, therefore, I , Ray Gasperson, chair of the Polk County Board of Commissioners do hereby proclaim April, 2011 as child abuse and neglect prevention month and call upon all Polk County citizens, community agencies, faith groups, medical facilities, elected leaders and businesses to increase their participation in our efforts to support families, thereby preventing child abuse and neglect and strengthening the community in which we live.