The event, hosted by the Fayetteville Child Advocacy Center, saw the planting of 531 pinwheels, each one a symbol of hope, resilience, and the importance of believing survivors. "It's just a symbol of childhood and innocence," said John Webster, executive director of the Child Advocacy Center. "So many of our children have had that robbed from them, and we're trying to find ways to restore that."
For survivors, the pinwheels serve as visible reminders that their stories matter. Local officials spoke about the lasting effects of abuse and the need for continued vigilance.
"For those who experience abuse or neglect, the impact can be very lasting," said one county commissioner. "It can affect their mental health, sense of safety, and how they move forward in life. And this is why your work that you do matters."
According to the Child Advocacy Center, 59% of reported abuse cases last year involved sexual abuse, 42% involved physical abuse, and in 99% of cases, the alleged offender knew the survivor.
Cumberland County consistently ranks among the top three counties in the state for the number of children investigated for maltreatment, according to the CAC.
Webster emphasized the importance of community education and intervention.
"We're educating the public about the importance of prevention and also how to report child abuse. If you're aware of a child who's being mistreated, what you can do to get some help for them," he said.
Faith Bohemer, prevention and volunteer coordinator at the center, noted that prevention starts early.
"When they're three, talk about who can touch your body parts," Bohemer said. "It's OK for the doctor to touch your body parts when they're having an exam. It's OK for mom and dad to wash your body parts when you're in the tub. But it's OK for you to take care of your body parts."
For parents and caregivers, recognizing warning signs can make a critical difference.
"If you're seeing changes in behavior, that's certainly something to respond to," Webster said. "Also, obviously, unexplained bruising on children, fear or maybe they're fearful of a particular person that they didn't used to have fear of. Those are all things that would at least raise questions."
As the blue pinwheels continue to spin, organizers hope the community will be reminded not only of the children affected by abuse but also of the role everyone can play in prevention and healing.
How to report?
To report child abuse in Cumberland County, NC, call the Department of Social Services (DSS) at (910) 677-2450 immediately, available 24/7. The Child Advocacy Center (222 Rowan St, Fayetteville) supports investigations, but all reports must be initiated through DSS or law enforcement. Call 911 for emergencies.
Upcoming child prevention month events
https://www.cacfaync.org/how-to-help/event-calendar.html