Altus AFB to observe National Child Abuse Prevention Month, more

  • Published
  • By Jackie Williams
  • Family Advocacy Outreach
ALTUS AIR FORCE BASE, Okla. --  Child abuse stories are a sad commentary on the lack of parenting skills of many Americans. The number of child abuse stories told by survivors of abuse weaves a tale of misguided behavior.

I'm not talking about a little whack on the butt now and then; I'm talking about the beating, shaking, yelling and choking to near death. It's a journey through hell and unfortunately for the child, a journey that continues into adulthood. Most child abuse stories seem to be similar; parents with financial problems, alcoholism, job problems and a history of abuse. If you can get child abuse stories out of the parents, you will generally find that they were abused as children.

Many parents think that beating is the only way to get a message through to a child and that is why child abuse stories are so sad. There are a many alternative measures parents can use to correct and discipline their children.

Throughout the base there will be many displays on child abuse as well as other issues that affect each and every one of us at one time or another, and what you can do to prevent it. Come and join in the fight. Remember, it only takes a minute to make a difference in the life of a child.

April is National Child Abuse Prevention Month, Month of the Military Child, Alcohol Awareness Month, and Stress Month. Throughout the month there will be many opportunities to get involved on and off base.

On April 2, 97th Air Mobility Wing Vice Commander Col. Michael Mendonca and Altus Mayor T.L. Gramling will sign a proclamation, which will show the commitment between the communities to end child abuse.

On April 1, the Child Development Center will be hosting an open house from 4 to 5:30 p.m. with various activity booths.

On April 2, bring your dog to Altus city reservoir and join in 'kick the butts, strut the mutts'. Great opportunity for smoking cessation and spend time with family.

On April 12, bring your children to the city gym for the second annual ACMI House carnival. Bring your children out to enjoy free food, games and moon bounce with prizes for everyone. ACMI House will also be sponsoring puppet shows around town at schools and other places of interest.

On April 15, join us at the Freedom Community Center for Fit Eaglet where children can learn about exercise, nutrition and watch a great puppet show. "Flubber" and hats will be made.

On April 19, join Altus court appointed special advocate at the second annual Love a Child Dinner and silent auction. Dinner will be at Best Western with the social hour at 6 p.m.; dinner will be served at 7 p.m. For more information and tickets, call (580) 482-4600.

There will be a bullying class sponsored by the Airman and Family Readiness Center from 3:30 to 5 p.m. at the Youth Center April 21.

The Youth Center carnival will be held April 25 at the Altus Youth Center from 3:30 to 5 p.m. There will be a bouncy castle, rock wall, games and more.