Click here to view the Spring 2010 Blue Ribbon Campaign Newsletter!
The Blue Ribbon Campaign began in the spring of 1989 when Bonnie Finney of Virginia lost her grandson, Michael Dickenson. The three year old died at the hands of her daughter’s abusive boyfriend. Bonnie tied a blue ribbon to her car- symbolizing the blue of her grandson’s bruises- and encouraged her community to do the same. During National Child Abuse Prevention Month each April, the Blue Ribbon Campaign is used throughout the country as a way to bring communities together to protect children from all forms of abuse.
KIDS Center brought the campaign to our community in 1997 to raise awareness of child abuse in Central Oregon. Last year there were over 2300 reports of child abuse in Central Oregon and almost 700 children walked through KIDS Center’s doors for evaluation and treatment of abuse. Most children do not report therefore the actual number of children being hurt in our community is far greater than we could ever know.
Here's how you can do your part: In Central Oregon each year more than 50,000 blue ribbons are distributed locally by volunteers, active citizens and community partners. Ribbons are available at KIDS Center and at businesses and agencies through-out the community. Show your support for protecting children. Wear a blue ribbon all during the month of April and learn more about how to protect the children in your life and in our entire community! Contact KIDS Center at 541-383-5958
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