Jonesboro, AR – (JonesboroRightNow.com) – April 8, 2024 – Craighead County Judge Marvin Day met the staffers at the Northeast Arkansas Children’s Advocacy Center and other dignitaries Monday to proclaim April as Pinwheels for Prevention and Child Abuse Prevention Month on the lawn at the Craighead County Courthouse.
Joining Judge Day was Jonesboro Mayor Harold Copenhaver, Craighead County Sheriff Marty Boyd, state Rep. Fran Cavenaugh of Walnut Ridge and state Rep. Jack Ladyman of Jonesboro.
Shawnie Wilson, Executive Director of the Center, said her organization helps children who suffer from child abuse and sexual abuse.
Victims of child abuse or sexual abuse are interviewed by a professional after the child is allowed time in a playroom at the center to relax them.
The interviews are videotaped so investigators can watch the interview without having to redo or repeat it, thus saving the child from further trauma, Wilson said.
The NEA CAC helped about 500 children in 2023, Wilson said.
According to the group’s website, “At Northeast Arkansas Children’s Advocacy Center, we strive to advocate for children suffering from child abuse in any capacity. Our goal is to create a safe, non-invasive environment with caring professionals that can help unfold their story and stop the system of violence. Through a carefully thought-out process, we speak one-on-one with children monitored by on-site professionals to gain insights into suspected abuse. With a playroom and proven strategies, we ensure that children go under as little stress as possible during interviews and exams.”
Services are free of charge and extend to seven counties including Clay, Craighead, Greene, Lawrence, Mississippi, Poinsett and Randolph.
A Connect at 4 event with the Jonesboro Regional Chamber of Commerce will be held from 4-6pm Thursday, April 11, at the group’s building, 2729 E. Nettleton Ave, Wilson said. A tent will be set up outside, and food and drinks will be served. Tours of the office will also be available.
On Sunday, April 25, a Blue Sunday, “A Day of Prayer for Abused Children” will be held on social media, Wilson said. Blue Sunday is a day when churches across the nation agree to pray for children who have been abused.