Local Leaders Promote Awareness and Work to Keep Kids Safe
(Brown County, Wis.) – Brown County Executive Troy Streckenbach has declared April as Child Abuse Prevention Month in Brown County to shine a light on the role all citizens play in protecting and promoting strong, healthy families and the well-being of children.
“Brown County has been focused on promoting proactive ways for families to stay together in order to enrich environments for children,” says Streckenbach. “By understanding that exposure to childhood trauma has a powerful and adverse effect on adults’ well-being, County staff and volunteers work tirelessly to support child, family, and community strengths through programs and services.”
In 2025, Brown County received over 1,000 screened-in and assessed referrals to its Child Protective Services unit. All citizens, businesses, and social institutions are urged to dedicate themselves to the task of improving safety and quality of life for children, especially in these difficult times. If anyone believes a child is being abused or neglected, please call (920) 448-6035 to make a report.
“We can all do our part to keep children safe and prevent further abuse or neglect by reporting it immediately,” says Brown County Health and Human Services Executive Director Erik Pritzl. “We can strengthen families through volunteering for community organizations, becoming a foster parent or Pals Program mentor, and just taking the time to get to know your neighbors and build connections with each other.”
Child Abuse Prevention Month focuses on the importance of centering families and building communities where children can grow up safe, healthy, and supported. Prevention happens when families have access to the resources, relationships, and supports they need to stay steady through every twist and turn of life.
“Every child deserves to feel safe, supported, and truly seen. In Brown County, prevention starts with connection, with neighbors, families, and community members showing up for one another. At CASA, we see every day how one consistent, caring adult can change the trajectory of a child’s life. That is something all of us can be part of,” says Michelle Pierquet-Hohner, Executive Director, CASA of Brown County.
Wear Blue Day is Friday April 10th and Brown County leaders are encouraging everyone to show their support for children and families by wearing blue and sharing messages about prevention. Blue represents possibility, strength, and the future families deserve. Utilize social media to share photos and positive prevention messages.
