Clay County declares April 2025 as Child Abuse Prevention Month in Vermillion

The Vermillion City Council took significant steps to promote community welfare during their recent meeting on April 7, 2025, by officially designating April as both Child Abuse Prevention Month and National Library Week.

Aaron Armstrong, president of the Clay County Child Protection Team, presented a proclamation recognizing April as Child Abuse Prevention Month. He highlighted the serious issue of child abuse and neglect, emphasizing the need for community involvement to address these challenges. Armstrong noted that in February 2025, the Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) assisted 24 children affected by abuse and neglect in the region. The proclamation calls for community efforts to create a safe and nurturing environment for children, underscoring the importance of prevention as the best defense against child abuse. To raise awareness, downtown main street accent lights will shine blue from April 7 to April 11, 2025.

In addition to child welfare, the council also proclaimed April 2025 as National Library Week. This initiative celebrates the vital role libraries play in fostering creativity, lifelong learning, and community engagement. The proclamation encourages residents to visit the Edith Bee Seagrest Vermillion Public Library, which offers a range of resources and programs for all ages. Library representatives expressed gratitude for the city's support and highlighted the library's extensive services, including access to Wi-Fi, various materials for checkout, and community programs.

These proclamations reflect the city's commitment to enhancing the quality of life for its residents, particularly its children and families. As Vermillion observes these important months, community members are urged to participate in activities that promote awareness and support for both child protection and library services.