Celebrating Children Event Brings Awareness to Child Abuse Prevention Month, Month of Military Child

Virginia Beach GrowSmart is hosting Celebrating Children, a family-friendly event that brings awareness to Child Abuse Prevention Month and Month of the Military Child. The event features a family fun run, entertainment by the Navy Band and Music in Motion, petting zoo, inflatable games, children’s activities and community resources. 

Celebrating Children is co-hosted by Virginia Beach Parks and Recreation along with GrowSmart community partners. Dr. Caitlin Pedati, director of the Virginia Beach Department of Public Health, will kick-off the fun run by welcoming families and sharing our community vision: Healthy children grow in the context of healthy families, which are supported by healthy communities.  

National Child Abuse Prevention Month recognizes the importance of families and communities working together to prevent child abuse and neglect. Prevention services and supports developed by this collaboration can help parents, other caregivers, and communities protect children and strengthen families. 

Month of the Military Child recognizes the life of a military kid as a blend of unique adventures and challenges. It’s important to remember that they serve our country, too, as part of a military family — not just in April, but all year long. Virginia Beach celebrates the challenges and triumphs of our military-connected children, who selflessly sacrifice for our country and are brave, proud and strong. #PurpleUp on April 17 to show your support for our military children and families. 

Celebrating Children is free and open to the public thanks to the partnerships and generous support of our sponsors, Sentara Health, United Way South Hampton Roads, Virginia Beach Department of Economic Development, Molina Health, Wegmans, TowneBank and Anthem HealthKeeper’s Plus. Their contribution reinforces their shared commitment to creating healthier communities through partnerships with organizations and individuals. 

Celebrating Children is 8:30 a.m. to noon, April 27, at Mount Trashmore Park. Families can learn more about the event and register for the fun run at vbgrowsmart.com/celebrating-children.