April is a time to come together as a community with a shared purpose: supporting children and strengthening families.
In recognition of Child Abuse Prevention Month, Partnership for Children of the Foothills is engaging families and community partners across McDowell, Polk and Rutherford counties through meaningful, hands-on outreach. From local libraries to community events, the focus is simple but powerful—helping children feel safe, supported and equipped to navigate life’s challenges.
Building Strong Foundations—One Child at a Time
Throughout the month, the Partnership will participate in storytimes at area libraries, creating opportunities to connect with young children and their caregivers in familiar, welcoming spaces. These moments may seem small, but they play a big role in promoting nurturing environments where children can grow, learn and thrive.
At the heart of this initiative is a belief that early support matters. When children feel safe and understood, they are better able to develop confidence, resilience and healthy relationships.
Small Tools That Make a Big Difference
As part of this effort, Partnership for Children of the Foothills is distributing backpacks filled with simple, practical tools designed to support children’s emotional well-being. These backpacks are being shared with trusted community partners who regularly interact with young children and families.
Inside, you’ll find age-appropriate resources focused on:
- Recognizing emotions
- Building positive coping skills
- Practicing mindfulness
These tools help children better understand their feelings and respond to challenges in healthy ways—skills that can last a lifetime.
“Everyone experiences challenges and helping children learn how to process uncomfortable emotions in healthy ways is an important step in building resilience,” said Vanessa Parton, Executive Director of Partnership for Children of the Foothills. “By equipping children and caregivers with simple, practical tools, we can support stronger families and safer communities.”
A Shared Responsibility
Child Abuse Prevention Month serves as an important reminder: protecting children is something we all play a role in.
Through partnerships, education and proactive outreach, Partnership for Children of the Foothills remains committed to promoting healthy child development from birth to age five—ensuring every child has the opportunity for a strong start.
Join Us This April
Community members are invited to take part in a full calendar of events across the region. Whether you stop by a storytime, attend a family event or participate in a training, your involvement helps build safer, stronger communities for children.
Community Events & Family Activities
- April 1 | 4:00 p.m.
Pinwheels for Prevention Event
Rutherford County Courthouse - April 7 | 10:30 a.m.
Tiny Tot Storytime & Pinwheel Garden Planting
McDowell County Public Library
90 Court St., Marion - April 16 | 10:00 a.m.
Storytime & Pinwheel Garden Planting
Mooneyham Public Library
240 E. Main St., Forest City - April 18 | 10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
YMCA Healthy Kids Day
348 Grace Corpening Dr., Marion - April 18 | 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
Spring Fever Family Fest & Pinwheel Planting
Stearns Park
125 E. Mills St., Columbus - April 29 | 10:30 a.m.
Storytime & Pinwheel Garden Planting
Rutherford County Library System
145 College Ave., Suite D, Rutherfordton
Educational Opportunities
- April 28 | 5:30 – 7:30 p.m.
W5 Mandated Reporter Training: Helping Protect Children in Our Community
Isothermal Community College - Child Safety Matters Curriculum
Available upon request
Contact Jessica Osteen, Program Director: Jessica@pfcfoothills.org
Learn More
To explore programs, resources or ways to get involved, visit www.PFCFoothills.org.
Together, we can make a lasting impact—one small tool, one connection and one child at a time.
