The pinwheel planting is an annual event held in Alpena and communities across the country. The Exchange Club of Alpena partners with agencies like NEMCSA and the Children’s Advocacy Center of Northeast Michigan to raise awareness especially during April.

“We partner with a lot of community organizations, with the Exchange Club,” said Erin Smith, regional manager of NEMCSA’s Head Start GSRP. “I think it’s important to bring awareness to child abuse prevention year-round. It’s wonderful that April is dedicated to it so we can really heighten that focus and protect our future — our children.”

During April, blue pinwheels represent hope for a bright, safe, and healthy childhood for all.

Prevent Child Abuse America introduced the Pinwheels for Prevention campaign in 2008, according to preventchildabuse.org.

News Photo by Darby Hinkley Children and teachers gather on Wednesday morning after planting pinwheels in recognition of Child Abuse Prevention Month. The young students are part of the Northeast Michigan Community Service Agency’s Head Start Great Start Readiness Program at Sunset School in Alpena.

According to the Prevent Child Abuse America website, pinwheels “represent childlike whimsy and lightheartedness and our vision for a world where all children grow up happy, healthy, and prepared to succeed in supportive families and communities.”

Everyone can play a role in child abuse prevention.

“Children who are raised with safe, stable, and nurturing relationships and environments are more academically and financially successful and grow up to be productive, contributing members of their communities,” preventchildabuse.org states. “Pinwheels are a reminder that we all play a role in children’s lives.”