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Hamblen County Community partners are joining together in a Community Fun Day event this Friday, April 10 from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Hillcrest Baptist Church, located at 410 South Liberty Hill Road in Morristown.

Sponsored by the Hamblen County Child Abuse Awareness Council, the event is about bringing community awareness to protecting children, empowering families and strengthening the community.

There will be free food, games, door prizes, and face painting for participants. Local community partners will be present with handouts for their organizations and the services they provide.

Event facilitator Karen Thomas said that this event is being held due to April being Child Abuse Awareness Month.

“Our goal is to identify the services that can be offered, as well as recognizing the signs of child abuse,” Thomas said. “When weather cooperates, we usually have 150 to 200 people. Our partners range from around 14 who provide services to children and families.”

Child Abuse Prevention Month is observed every April in the U.S. to raise awareness about child abuse, promote education, and encourage community action to protect children.

April was chosen because it represents renewal, growth, and hope—values that align with protecting children and supporting safe, nurturing environments.

Each April, leaders at all levels issue Child Abuse Prevention Month proclamations to highlight the importance of child safety and mobilizing action.

These formal declarations set the stage for awareness efforts across the country