Amended Agenda Item 2B - Proclamation Child Abuse Prevention~rodamation
WHEREAS, Florida's future prosperity depends on nurturing the healthy development of more than four
million children currently living, growing and learning within our many diverse communities; and
WHEREAS, every child is entitled to be loved, cared for, secure, and protected from verbal, sexual,
emotional, and physical abuse, exploitation and neglect; and
WHEREAS, child abuse continues to be one of our nation's most serious public health problems. Studies
have shown that the abuse and neglect of children can cause severe, costly and lifelong problems affecting all of
society, including physical and mental health problems, school failure and criminal behavior; and
WHEREAS, research shows that parents and caregivers who have social networks and know how to seek
help in times of trouble are more resilient and better able to provide safe environments and nurturing experiences
for their children; and
WHEREAS, individuals, businesses, schools, and faith-based and community organizations must make
children a top priority and take action to support the physical, social, emotional and educational development and
competency of all children; and
WHEREAS, during the month of April, Prevent Child Abuse Florida, in collaboration with the Florida
Department of Children and Families, will be engaging communities throughout the state in a coordinated effort to
prevent child abuse and neglect by promoting the awareness of healthy child development, positive parenting
practices and the types of concrete support families need within their communities.
NOW THEREFORE, I, Carolyn Woods, Mayor of the City of Atlantic Beach, Florida, do hereby
proclaim the month of April2014, as
CHILD ABUSE PREVENTION MONTH
and urge all citizens of the City of Atlantic Beach to work together to help reduce child abuse and neglect and make
every effort to promote programs that benefit children and their families.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have
set my hand and caused the Official
Seal of the City of Atlantic Beach to
be affixed this 14th day of April, 2014.
Caroi~OR