Otter Tail County Proclaims April 2026 National Child Abuse Prevention Month

When communities come together to support families before a crisis happens, children are safer and families are stronger," said Human Services director Deb Sjostrom as the Otter Tail County Board of Commissioners proclaimed April 2026 as National Child Abuse Prevention Month, calling on residents, businesses, faith communities, and organizations across the county to support the well-being of children and families.

The board includes Dan Bucholz (District 1), Wayne D. Johnson (District 2), Sean Sullivan (District 5), and Bob Lahman (District 4). Stephanie Olson, the Children and Families Unit supervisor within Human Services, was also recognized alongside the commissioners in connection with the proclamation. Commissioner Johnson offered brief remarks on the significance of the county's prevention efforts. "This is important work," Johnson said. "Every time we can get a child in a safe place we do good work. We appreciate the work of the team."

The proclamation calls on the full breadth of Otter Tail County's civic life to participate, and it comes with a clear acknowledgment that child abuse and neglect affect every part of the community. The county's official statement added that prevention works best when families, schools, health care providers, law enforcement, and community members all share the responsibility.

Throughout April, blue and white pinwheels will be on display at locations across Otter Tail County. The pinwheel is the national symbol of child abuse prevention and represents the bright futures every child deserves. Prevent Child Abuse America has centered its 2026 campaign around the theme "Pinwheels of Possibility," reflecting the power of families, communities, and systems working together.

Wear Blue Day falls on Friday, April 10. Sjostrom urged everyone in the county to mark the date. "We encourage everyone to take part this month," she said. "Wear blue on April 10, look for the pinwheels, and think about how you can make a difference for a child in your community."

Residents seeking more information about child abuse prevention programs and services can contact Otter Tail County Human Services at (218) 998-8150. The county's main offices are located at 500 W Fir Ave in Fergus Falls.