August’s Message from our President and CEO

The 2024 Olympic Games showcased not just athletic excellence, but the extraordinary resilience of athletes like Simone Biles, Noah Lyles, Lydia Jacoby, and Kenny Bednarek. These champions triumphed over Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) such as foster care, mental health challenges, and financial struggles, embodying a spirit of courage that aligns perfectly with PCA America’s mission. Their stories remind us of the critical importance of creating supportive environments that empower every child to overcome adversity and reach their full potential.

As we channel this spirit of resilience into the new school year, it’s important to acknowledge that back-to-school can be a whirlwind of emotions, new routines, and unexpected challenges for both children and parents. Parenting during these transitions is no easy task, and it’s vital to extend kindness to ourselves. Remember, we all need a little support sometimes. This fall, we encourage you to prioritize your well-being, manage stress, and connect with your community for mutual support. We all need a little support sometimes, so here is a friendly reminder to take care of your own stress this fall:

• Chat with a trusted person in your life and do not be afraid to ask for help when you need it.
• Make time for some fun with your child—a game outside or reading a favorite book together.

 

At PCA America, we are all about empowering families and creating positive environments for both parents and kids. Here are a few actions you can take to help other parents in your community:

• Volunteer or support your local PCA America chapter or Healthy Families America partner site.
• Visit PCA America’s Policy Action Center to encourage elected officials to support policies that help families stay out of crisis.
• Visit Findhelp.org to locate access to food, housing, or other critical resources for those who need it.
• Offer a meal to a new mom, offer to babysit, or check in with other parents who might be feeling overwhelmed.
• Host or contribute to a drive for diapers, food, or clothing.
• Volunteer for a local diaper bank, family resource center, or public library.

 

Below are a few of the other ways that PCA America is rallying around prevention this fall:

• Kinship Care Month (September): At PCA America, we believe family is whoever you say it is, and every role
  is important. We are grateful for the relatives and family friends who step up to care for children when
  parents cannot. Your love and dedication provide stability and belonging, keeping families strong.
• National Hispanic Heritage Month (September): At PCA America, we believe in the importance of supporting all children and families regardless of where they live, their background, or the color of their skin. Together, we can make prevention possible and promote health, safety, and well-being in every community.
• National Diaper Need Awareness Week (September 23 – 29): Clean diapers are a basic need of every baby and toddler, but 1 in 3 U.S. families still struggle to afford them. By working together, we can ensure every child has access to the essentials they need for their health and well-being.
• PCA America is teaming up with Boom Broadcast & Media to spread our prevention message nationwide.
  Watch our PSA to learn how we can all help strengthen families and prevent child abuse and neglect.

 

In line with our ongoing commitment to fostering nurturing environments, PCA America is also excited to introduce Prevent Child Abuse Hawaii, part of Hawaii Children’s Action Network (HCAN), as our newest state chapter. As Prevent Child Abuse Hawaii, HCAN will advance policies and upstream approaches that promote financial stability, economic mobility, and access to healthcare among Hawaiʻi’s children and families. HCAN is a strong partner of Hawaii’s statewide home visiting network, family strengthening initiatives, and public education efforts. PCA Hawaii is led by executive director Deborah Zysman. Please join us in welcoming PCA Hawaii to our State Chapter Network.

Finally, with Labor Day around the corner, I would like to give a big shoutout to our incredible PCA America and Healthy Families America staff, state chapters, and partner organizations nationwide. All of you are doing the work of love and the heart work that is necessary to ensure all children and families live a purposeful and happy life with hope for the future. Thank you again for all that you do to prevent child abuse and neglect before it happens.

Prevention is a collective effort, and together, we can make a profound impact. Thank you for your continued partnership in this essential work. Here’s to a successful, resilient, and inspiring year ahead!

With heartfelt gratitude,

Dr. Melissa Merrick
President and CEO, PCA America