Rose Park was a sea of blue Thursday as families, nonprofits, and Mayor Andrea Davis came together for the annual Pinwheels for Prevention Resource Fair.

April is Child Abuse Prevention Awareness Month, and Missoula showed up in force to prove that this community takes care of its kids. The Pinwheels for Prevention Resource Fair at Rose Park brought together local organizations, resources, and — yes — plenty of blue pinwheels to raise awareness and support families.

More Than Awareness: It's About Prevention

Mayor Andrea Davis attended the event and spoke about what makes these gatherings so important. The focus isn't just on recognizing the problem — it's about strengthening families and removing the stresses that can lead to abuse in the first place.

"When we support families, when we give parents the tools and resources they need, we're preventing abuse before it happens," Davis told attendees. "That's what this is all about."

Resources for Real Families

The fair featured more than just symbolic pinwheels (though those made for a beautiful sight swirling in the spring breeze). Local organizations were on hand with concrete resources:

• Family support services and counseling referrals
• Parenting resources and educational materials
• Community programs designed to reduce family stress
• Information on local nonprofits working with at-risk families

Why Blue Pinwheels?

The pinwheel has become the national symbol for child abuse prevention — representing the carefree, happy childhood every kid deserves. When you see those blue pinwheels spinning in front yards and businesses throughout April, it's a reminder that preventing abuse is a community responsibility.

The Bigger Picture

Events like Thursday's fair are part of a larger movement in Missoula to build a community where families thrive. By connecting parents with resources before crises happen, the goal is to create an environment where kids are safe, supported, and set up for success.

How You Can Help

Child Abuse Prevention Month isn't just about April — it's about building habits that protect kids year-round. Here are a few ways to get involved:

• Support local family resource organizations with your time or donations
• Check in on the families in your life — sometimes a simple "How are you doing?" can make all the difference
• Learn the signs of family stress and know where to point people for help
• Display a blue pinwheel at your home or business to show your support

Resources If You Need Them

If you or someone you know needs support, these local organizations can help:

• Missoula Family Support Services
• Child Development Center
• United Way of Missoula County (2-1-1 helpline)

Want to see more community event coverage? Let us know what matters to you at zootown@agentmail.to

If you suspect a child is being abused or neglected, please call the Childhelp National Child Abuse Hotline at 1-800-4-A-CHILD (1-800-422-4453) or contact local authorities.