History of Child Abuse and Neglect Prevention Month
The Blue Ribbon Story
Over the past decade, the blue ribbon has become widely recognized as a national symbol of child abuse awareness and prevention. This movement began in the spring of 1989, when a compassionate grandmother, Bonnie Finney, of Norfolk, Va., took a public stand against child maltreatment after her grandson, Michael Wayne Dickenson, died tragically as a result of physical abuse. Bonnie tied a blue ribbon on her van as a symbol of her commitment to reach out and involve others in her battle to prevent child abuse.
The spirit of the blue ribbon has grown and has inspired efforts nationwide to increase awareness and understanding about the importance of preventing child abuse and neglect. It serves as a symbol, unifying child advocates in all 50 states, and functions as a visible gesture of support for prevention.
Please join us in spreading the message … it’s easy!
Just wear a blue ribbon as a visible gesture of your support for child abuse / neglect prevention … tie one on your car, purse or briefcase … give one to your friends and neighbors … tell everyone you meet what it represents, and what they can do to prevent child abuse and neglect … you can make a difference!
Blue Ribbon Campaign
Click images to download the PDF
Blue Ribbon Pins & Stickers
If you are interested in receiving blue ribbon pins or stickers for your agency to distribute, please contact Carolyn Brewer at 614-387-5478 or via email at carolyn.brewer@jfs.ohio.gov .
Pin 
Sticker
Public Service Announcements
Director Douglas E. Lumpkin
PSA #1 (Audio) PSA #1 (Text)
PSA #2 (Audio) PSA #2 (Text)
PSA #3 (Audio) PSA #3 (Text)
Proclamation
Governor Strickland Proclamation
Press Release
President Barack Obama Proclamation
House & Senate Resolutions
Senate Resolution
Local Prevention Month Activities
Allen County – April Activities Calendar
Fairfield County - Family Festival Flyer & Events
Pickaway County – Pickaway Family and Children First
Stark County - Child Abuse/Neglect Awareness
Wyandot County - Article & Photo
Legislative Packets
* coming soon *