Prevent Child Abuse Connecticut

Prevention Starts with Strong Communities

Prevent Child Abuse Connecticut (PCAC) is the state chapter of Prevent Child Abuse America, dedicated to stopping abuse before it starts. We believe every child deserves to grow up in a safe, nurturing environment, and every community can play a role in making that possible.

PCAC leads statewide prevention programs, parent leadership initiatives, and public awareness campaigns that focus on family strengths, resilience, and community support.

What We Do

Building Family and Community Resilience

Our work is rooted in evidence-based strategies that strengthen families and prevent abuse and neglect before they occur. This includes:

Parent Leadership Training

Elevating the voices of parents in shaping community programs and policy.

Public Awareness Campaigns

Promoting positive parenting and educating communities about child well-being.

Community-Based Prevention Programs

Partnering with organizations to provide resources and education where they’re needed most.

Why Prevention Matters

Research shows that child abuse and neglect are preventable when families have access to support, resources, and strong social networks. By focusing on protective factors like parental resilience, social connections, and knowledge of parenting and child development, PCAC helps families thrive and children grow up safe.

Families engaged in PCAC-supported programs report increased parenting confidence and stronger support systems.

Awareness campaigns like “Pinwheels for Prevention” reach thousands of Connecticut residents each year, sparking community action.

Programs & Initiatives

Pinwheels for Prevention®

A national campaign to raise awareness during Child Abuse Prevention Month.

Parent Leadership Academy

Training parents to be advocates and leaders in their communities.

Community Partnerships

Collaborating with local organizations to expand prevention strategies and education.

Professional Training

Workshops and webinars for educators, healthcare providers, and service professionals.

Prevent Child Abuse CT Grants

Check back soon for our next application cycle!

Get Involved

There are many ways to join the movement to prevent child abuse:

  • Host a Pinwheel Garden or awareness event.
  • Become a parent leader or mentor.
  • Donate to support prevention programs.
  • Share educational resources with your community.

Join the 7th Annual Response to Recovery Conference

Offering a diverse selection of session topics and workshops, the Response to Recovery Conference is an opportunity for disciplines across Connecticut and nationwide to come together to learn how to strengthen their response to child abuse and exploitation cases.

To report suspected abuse or neglect in Connecticut, call the DCF Careline: 1-800-842-2288 (24/7). If the child is in immediate danger, call 911.