Prevent Child Abuse Iowa Turns 50 in 2025

In 2025, Prevent Child Abuse Iowa proudly celebrates 50 years of protecting children and strengthening families. What started as a grassroots movement—led by passionate volunteers and community members determined to raise awareness about child abuse has grown into a statewide leader in prevention. This milestone is more than a marker of time; it’s a tribute to the generations of Iowans who have worked together to create safer, healthier futures for children.

50 Years Strong: Honoring Half a Century of Prevention

You're invited to the celebration! As Prevent Child Abuse Iowa honors five decades of prevention, we’re reimagining how to support families and build strong connections between children, parents and communities. So we’re throwing a birthday party — one that celebrates the joy of childhood.

Bring your family and join us for a fun-filled afternoon featuring live music, superheroes, face painting, Iowa State University athletes in conjunction with We Will Collective, cupcakes, cookies and delicious ice cream from the Iowa State Creamery. The event is free and open to all. No family should miss out on an afternoon of fun due to financial barriers.

Save the Date

Sunday, June 22, 2025
2 – 5 p.m.
Reiman Gardens, Ames, Iowa

What is Prevention?

Prevention rarely makes headlines. It’s not flashy, and it’s not always easy, but it’s essential. Prevention is about acting before harm occurs, before families are in crisis, before parents are overwhelmed and before children need urgent intervention.

Why I Serve

So why did I join the board of Prevent Child Abuse Iowa? A friend asked if I’d consider serving. I took some time to research the organization and reflected on my own childhood, one that wasn’t always safe or easy. I could relate to the trauma many children face in unsafe homes.

I also wanted to become a better father. Serving on the board has opened my eyes to what prevention looks like in action. It’s taught me about parenting, community support systems and the powerful role we all play in helping families succeed.

Our children are our future, and it’s up to us to empower and uplift parents so every child can have more good days.

Find out more about the Prevent Child Abuse Iowa mission and upcoming events at pcaiowa.org.

Improving the Greater Des Moines (DSM) community through volunteering and community service is a priority for many. Thanks to community engagement opportunities and leadership connecting local businesses to causes that provide services to improve the region, DSM continues to be a place that provides support for those who live, work and play here.