FAIRCHILD AIR FORCE BASE, Wash. - The Family Advocacy Program educates Airmen and their families about ways to prevent child abuse and, in April, they are putting more focus on the issue as part of National Child Abuse Awareness Month.
In April 1983, then President Ronald Reagan declared the first Child Abuse Awareness Month as a way to remind individuals of their duty to protect the youngest and most vulnerable members of our future generations.
At Fairchild, the FAP is hosting several events throughout the month.
"Education is critical in changing behaviors," said Ruth Sunde, 92nd Medical Operations Squadron Family Advocacy outreach manager. "Although parenting classes are always available through the Family Advocacy, there will be a special weekend (1-2-3 Magic Parenting) class on April 11 in the Health Promotions classroom at the base gym."
The 1-2-3 Magic Parenting class is an easy to follow and direct method of parenting that gives parents tools to better deal with problematic behavior. Individuals can still sign up by calling the Family Advocacy Office at (509) 247-2687.
The FAP will also conduct a base-wide diaper drive to benefit Spokane's Vanessa Behan Crisis Nursery. The nursery's mission evolved from the tragic story of Vanessa Kay Behan, a Spokane girl who died from child abuse injuries at the age of 2. Donation boxes will be located at the Exchange, Balfour Beatty Community Center, the medical treatment facility, the Child Development Center, the base chapel and the base library. Last year's drive resulted in the donation of more than 750 diapers.
"The Crisis Nursery provides immediate refuge for children and support to strengthen families," Sunde said. "We are doing this to help raise awareness."
On April 14 at 9 a.m., the FAP will have their first Stamp Out Child Abuse Stamp Camp at the Balfour Beatty Community Center.
"In this free activity, participants can make greeting cards with family or patriotic themes," she said. "A light lunch will be provided by Balfour Beatty."
According to Sunde, there are a multitude of resources to help parents understand and cope with child behavior and development.
Resources include counseling and educational resources through the following:
-Family Advocacy: (509) 247-2687
-Behavioral Health Optimization Clinic: (509) 247-2361
-Military and Family Life Consultants (both child and adult)
-Seeking services through Military One Source: (800) 342-9647
Additionally, AFI 40-301 "Family Advocacy," designates all military and civilian workers as mandated reporters.
For more information, call the Family Advocacy Office at (509) 247-2687.