(PCM+) Join Mr. Ponca City for the 4th Annual Child Abuse Awareness Walk
by Relo Adams, MS, MCP, LPC-C | Contributing Writer
The following article appeared in the print issue of Ponca City Monthly magazine, which includes hyperlocal stories about Ponca City. Get full access to all online articles, videos, and content by becoming a paid subscriber. We offer free and paid subscription plans. Find rack locations to pick up your free print copy here, or subscribe here to get online access plus exclusive content.
Article Highlights
Impact of Early Intervention: Research indicates that preventing or quickly addressing childhood maltreatment significantly reduces the risk of long-term mental health challenges, such as depression, anxiety, and PTSD, while promoting lifelong psychological resilience.
Building for the Future: The Dearing House recently broke ground on “Dottie’s Place,” an expansion that will provide essential new space for forensic interviews, medical exams, and specialized counseling to better serve children in Kay and Noble Counties.
Join the Walk Today: Help raise awareness by participating in the 4th Annual Child Abuse Awareness Walk today, April 17, from 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM, starting at the Dearing House Child Advocacy Center and ending at the City Central Building.
In the United States, April is Child Abuse Awareness Prevention Month. This was first started in the early 1980s with the goals of raising awareness, strengthening families and encouragement in involving the community in preventative efforts that promote well-being of children, the promotion of child safety and alleviating maltreatment of children.
The goal of this month is to highlight the responsibility we all share as individuals, professionals, families and communities in providing care and protection to all children. This observance is to promote the creation of safe and stable spaces that are nurturing to the healthy development of kids. This month is a national reminder that child welfare should be a priority, and systems and efforts should be established and utilized in order to provide and ensure child safety! The national symbol associated with this month and movement are the blue pinwheel and blue ribbon, which represents a healthy and happy childhood that every child deserves to experience. Nationwide, many organizations and communities hold events and activities that raise awareness for child safety. In Ponca City, Oklahoma, the local Child Advocacy Center, The Dearing House will be hosting the 4th annual Child Abuse Awareness Walk on April 17, 2026. This walk has turned into an annual highlight due to significant community involvement and due to the countless students who join the walk!
