While April is recognized nationwide as Child Abuse Prevention Month, Peace House has coined it “Family Strengthening Month.” The domestic violence nonprofit is hosting its third annual “Keeping Kids Safe” event, which will focus on empowerment, education and prevention, the organization sai d.This community-centered workshop is scheduled for Saturday at Rocky Mountain Middle School in Heber City, from 1-3 p.m. with presentations, tabling and activities for the whole family.First held in Park City three years ago, the event has evolved from a straightforward child abuse prevention presentation to a more inclusive, approachable and engaging family celebration, a way for community members to come together to support an important issue, explained Emma Zevallos, outreach and prevention director at Peace House and who will provide an informational presentation at the event.Now in its second year in the Wasatch County area, the event reflects Peace House’s ongoing commitment to expanding its outreach beyond Park City and supporting families throughout the Wasatch back.“We want families in Heber and beyond to know we’re here for them too, not just Park City,” said Zevallos. “There was a misconception that Peace House only served Summit County, but that’s changing.”While the event maintains a festive atmosphere, its purpose addresses a critical issue. In 2024 alone, Utah confirmed 8,791 cases of child abuse and neglect — over 70% involving a parent as the perpetrator, with another 16.2% committed by other family members.“It’s often not a stranger. It’s someone the child knows,” Zevallos said. “That’s why it’s crucial that parents are equipped to act when their children speak up.”She explained that sometimes when a difficult situation presents itself parents might not know what to do or how to respond — the event is important because it equips parents with tools to respond if their children show signs of abuse or violence.This year’s event offers families an opportunity to connect with local organizations that provide valuable community resources. In addition to services from Peace House, attendees can visit booths hosted by partners like Holy Cross Ministries, the Wasatch Health Department, Big Brothers Big Sisters, Live Like Sam and the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, among others. The day will also feature family-friendly activities including a live reptile show, food from local restaurant Quesabirrias, and bilingual presentations with interpretation available in both English and Spanish.The event aims to create an atmosphere where families can have fun, learn and leave feeling stronger and more supported, said Zevallos. The Family Strengthening event is free and open to all families in the area. For more information about Peace House, visit peacehouse.org.The post Peace House hosts family-strengthening event in Heber City appeared first on Park Record. ...read more read less