Phelps County to Recognize April as Child Abuse Awareness Month Community Invited to Ceremony and Ho

ROLLA, MO — CASA of South Central Missouri invites community members to gather at the Phelps County Courthouse on Wednesday, April 8, at 2:00 p.m. as local leaders issue a proclamation recognizing April as Child Abuse Awareness Month in Phelps County.
 
The proclamation ceremony highlights the importance of protecting vulnerable children and raising awareness about abuse and neglect in our community. In Phelps County there were 206 children in foster care in the last quarter, each facing uncertainty during a critical time in their lives.
 
CASA of South Central Missouri works to ensure these children have a consistent, caring adult advocating for their best interests. Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) volunteers are trained community members who speak up for children in court, help them navigate the foster care system, and work toward safe, stable outcomes.
 
“Child abuse and neglect are not issues we can look away from. They affect children and families right here in our community,” said Amber Stienbarger, Executive Director of CASA of South Central Missouri. “This proclamation is a chance to raise awareness, but it is also a call to action. When a community shows up, speaks up, and chooses to support its children, it sends a powerful message that they matter.”
 
Following the proclamation ceremony, community members are invited to participate in an Hour of Service immediately afterward at The Landing, 1801 E. 18th St. in Rolla, the foster care boutique operated through Four Rivers Community Health Center. Volunteers will help assemble and organize resources that directly support local children and families in the foster care system.
 
CASA of South Central Missouri serves children in foster care by recruiting, training, and supporting volunteers who advocate for their safety and well-being. Events like the proclamation ceremony and Hour of Service provide opportunities for the community to stand together and show that every child deserves to be seen, heard, and supported. The community is encouraged to attend and wear blue as a visible show of support for children and families impacted by abuse and neglect.
 
For more information about CASA of South Central Missouri, Child Abuse Awareness Month activities, or volunteer opportunities, visit www.casascmo.org