Prince William County Hosts Pinwheel Garden Planting to Recognize Child Abuse Prevention Month
Prince William County elected officials, staff and residents recently gathered at the Sean T. Connaughton Plaza to plant a garden filled with blue pinwheels in recognition of April as National Child Abuse Prevention Month. The observance raises awareness and strengthens the community’s collective efforts to protect children and support families.
Pinwheels are the national symbol for child abuse prevention and represent the idea that every child should live a carefree childhood filled with joy and hope.
Prince William County Chair At-Large Deshundra Jefferson said those who attended the ceremony shared a commitment to the well-being of children and families, reflecting this year’s theme, “Building a Hopeful Future Together: Preventing Child Abuse Together.”
Jefferson said the pinwheels are “small, vibrant symbols that capture a sense of childlike joy, whimsy and hope that can translate into successful community members.”
“When children are raised in a safe, stable and nurturing environment, they are more likely to succeed academically, thrive financially and grow into engaged, contributing members of society. The pinwheel stands as a reminder of that shared responsibility.”
Potomac District Supervisor Andrea Bailey said pinwheels are more than a decoration in Prince William County.
“They are a promise – a promise that we will not move away from – a promise that we will work together … with our neighbors, our educators, our public safety professionals and our advocates to create a community where children are protected, nurtured and given every opportunity to thrive,” said Bailey.
Department of Social Services Director Phyllis Jennings-Holt said the pinwheel garden represents a shared commitment to supporting children and strengthening families.
"It is a call to each of us to remain vigilant, to speak up and be a part of the community where children are seen, heard and protected," Jennings-Holt said. "Every pinwheel planted today represents a child who deserves a safe, stable and a nurturing environment. Because when we invest in our children, we invest in our future and our community."
Child abuse prevention remains a critical priority. When families have access to support, resources and strong connections, children are more likely to grow up safe, healthy and successful. Prevention efforts focus on addressing challenges early and connecting families to support before situations escalate.
Laurie Wilson, Department of Social Services Advisory Board Chair, told supporters gathered on the plaza that every child deserves a future filled with hope, opportunity and freedom, and that change often begins with simple acts of support.
“Real change happens in everyday moments, when we check on our neighbors, when we offer support to a struggling family and when we simply show kindness to a child, let it be a reminder of our collective shared power to help create environments where children can represent our shared relationships.”
Department of Social Services Human Services Program Manager Theresa Wilson said planting the pinwheel garden helps bring people together to prevent child abuse and support children.
“As we plant these pinwheels today, let it serve as a reminder that when we work together, we can help ensure that every child grows up safe and supported,” Wilson said.
The Department of Social Services provides programs designed to support families and promote child safety and well-being, including:
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Family support and prevention services aimed at helping families before a crisis happens
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Family Partnership Meetings that help families identify supports and solutions
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Community resource connections for food, childcare, parent education and support, mental health counseling and healthcare
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Collaborative case planning with the community
As part of Child Abuse Prevention Month, DSS will continue outreach at local farmers markets to connect residents with available resources:
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April 12 — Haymarket Farmers Market, 15000 Washington St., 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
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April 19 — Dale City Farmers Market, 14090 Gemini Way, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Residents are asked to support children and families by offering encouragement, volunteering with local organizations and helping raise awareness about prevention efforts.
If you suspect a child is being abused or neglected, call the Child Abuse and Neglect Hotline at 1-800-552-7096, available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. If a child is in immediate danger, call 911 or local law enforcement.
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