The Children's Trust Fund (CTF), a state chapter of Prevent Child Abuse America, and more than 20 local prevention councils are sponsoring the pinwheel gardens in conjunction with Gov. Jennifer M. Granholm's proclamation of April as Child Abuse Prevention Month in Michigan.

The Pinwheels for Prevention campaign focuses on community activities and public policies that promote prevention to reduce child abuse and neglect. Last year, 29,638 children were abused or neglected in Michigan.

The campaign is based on two beliefs: that the public recognizes child abuse and neglect as a serious problem, but often doesn't know how to prevent it; and that issues the public cares about - including the economy, rising health care costs, and animal abuse are related to child abuse and neglect.

"It's simple really," said CTF interim director Paul Shaheen. "The actions we take to promote healthy child development are the very actions that help prevent child abuse and neglect. Parent-child interaction, reading and constructive play are all very helpful. Healthy child development also leads to a better educated and more productive workforce, which is good for community and economic development."

Child abuse and neglect often have lifelong consequences such as increased chances of delinquency, criminal involvement, drug addiction, chronic health problems, mental health issues and an overall decline in productivity.

"Pinwheels for Prevention is a grassroots movement everyone can join," Shaheen said. "We should all focus on healthy child development, creating stable and loving environments for children, and stopping child abuse and neglect before it occurs."

For information on where to go to participate in local Pinwheels for Prevention activities, please consult the attached list of the prevention councils that are taking part in the Pinwheels for Prevention campaign. For more information on the Children's Trust Fund, please consult the CTF Web site at www.michigan.gov/ctf