The Cumberland County Blue Ribbon Committee will present its 20th annual Blue-Ribbon Ceremony in April.
April is National Child Abuse Prevention Month, and the blue ribbon is the national symbol of child abuse prevention.
“This annual ceremony promotes awareness and will focus on the importance of protecting our children from abuse,” said Denise Melton, one of the organizers.
Melton said child abuse is not just a local issue; it is also a national problem.
She shared that 532 open cases involve 1,330 children in Cumberland County in 2025, adding, “prevention is of the utmost priority.”
“A Safe Childhood Starts With Us” is the theme the Blue-Ribbon Committee has chosen for this year’s event.
“The children who suffer from abuse often feel isolated and hopeless,” Melton said. “This year’s event will focus on resources, hope, and help. With all the organizations working together for the prevention of child abuse, we can make a difference by supporting families, educating the community, and ensuring every child has a safe environment.”
She added, “Community involvement and awareness are crucial steps in ending the cycle of abuse.”
The event will be April 12 at the Cumberland County Community Complex, 1398 Livingston Road.
Doors will open at noon, and a free meal will be offered to the first 200 in attendance.
Booths will be set up, offering prizes for the children; a balloon artist and face painter will be present, along with many other activities for children.
Adults can discover community resources and find out how to get involved and become part of the solution.
The Blue-Ribbon Committee is also collaborating with the Cumberland County public, private, and homeschool students for a bumper sticker contest using this year’s theme.
Students are invited to participate; first-, second- and third-place prizes will be given to the winners and presented by Cumberland County Mayor Allen Foster and Crossville Mayor R.J. Crawford.
Posters, bumper stickers, and drawings created by students from years past will also be on display.
“Come join us as we all learn how to better prevent child abuse,” Melton said.
“Together, our collective efforts can create lasting change for the children of Cumberland County and beyond. Your participation matters — let us take a stand for a safer, brighter future.”
Call Melton at 931-707-2273 for more information.