[Archived] Preventing and Recognizing Child Abuse

For Immediate Release: March 31, 2016

This April, in recognition of Child Abuse Prevention Month, the Child Abuse Prevention Coalition of Alexandria (CAPCA) is offering free trainings and a film screening to raise awareness and discuss solutions to child abuse in our community.

In fiscal year 2015, City of Alexandria Child Protective Services (CPS) received calls for more than 1,600 allegations of child abuse and neglect. From inadequate supervision to sexual abuse, each allegation represents a community member who is concerned enough about the safety of a child to make a call seeking help. The prevention of child abuse is everyone’s responsibility, and throughout April there will be opportunities for individuals and organizations to learn how to prevent abuse and how to respond when concerned about the safety of a child.

Respond Responsibly to Child Abuse and Neglect: April 1, 9:30-12 p.m. and April 14, 2-4:30 p.m.

Become a Steward of Children and Prevent Child Sexual Abuse: April 6, 2-4:30 p.m. and
April 20, 9:30-12 p.m.

Bystanders Protecting Children from Boundary Violations and Sexual Abuse:  
April 25, 3-4:30 p.m.

All trainings will be held at the Center for Alexandria’s Children, 1900 N. Beauregard Street, Suite 200, Alexandria. Obtain more information and register online.

Film Screening - Breaking the Silence, A Documentary on Survivors of  Child Sexual Abuse: April 12, 6:30-8:30 p.m., Lee Center, 1108 Jefferson Street. The film with be followed by a panel presentation with members of the Alexandria Multidisciplinary Team, ACPS and RAINN. Learn more about the film.

CAPCA comprises the Center for Alexandria’s Children (CAC), the Department of Community and Human Services, Healthy Families Alexandria and SCAN of Northern Virginia. 

If you are unable to attend an event and would like more information, or wish to arrange a training, contact the CPS Program Manager at doug.brown@alexandriava.govor 703.746.5767 or Eliza Harrell, CAC Director of Development and Operations, at eliza@alexandriaskids.org or 703.746.6043.