Pinwheels for Prevention: Taking a Stand Against Child Abuse

Churchill County is joining communities across the country in recognizing April as Child Abuse Prevention Month, taking a stand for the health, safety, and future of local children.

During a recent meeting of the Churchill County Commissioners, Social Services Coordinator Shannon Arts introduced Brittany Burton, who leads the county’s prevention efforts.

“Each year, Churchill County receives over 300 reports of child abuse and neglect,” Burton said. “April is a time for us to raise awareness, educate the public and focus on building strong, resilient families.”

To kick off the month, the community “Painted the Town Blue” on Tuesday, April 1, starting with a pinwheel planting at Millennium Park and the symbolic dyeing of the fountain on Maine Street.

A joint proclamation from Churchill County and the City of Fallon was read at 10 a.m. on Friday, April 4, affirming a shared commitment to prevention and child welfare efforts.

Churchill County Social Services is hosting a series of events this month to support families and raise awareness, including a Family Carnival on Wednesday, April 24, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the William N. Pennington Life Center and Free Movie Nights at Fallon Theatre on Friday and Saturday, April 25 and 26, at 6:30 p.m., where they will be showing “Inside Out.” 

Burton also encouraged residents to wear blue each Friday in April to show support.

“We hope the community will join us not just tomorrow, but every Friday in April by wearing blue,” she said. “Each pinwheel we plant represents a child’s bright future — one filled with safety, love and opportunity.”

The commissioners unanimously adopted the proclamation, officially declaring April 2025 as Child Abuse Prevention and Awareness Month in Churchill County.

“Let’s stand united to break the cycle of abuse and foster a brighter tomorrow,” Burton said.

A full calendar of events is available on the Churchill County Social Services Facebook page and website.