April is Child Abuse Prevention Month and the Child Abuse Prevention Center is doing all they can to not only raise awareness, but also stop the cycle of abuse.
Every year in the United States, about 900,000 children are victims of abuse, according to Health and Human Services.
Shannique Banks is one of the center’s success stories.
"I feel like it's a blessing, because without them and my family for support I would be lost," said Banks, a single teen mom who almost dropped out before finding CAP Center.
With help from her counselors, Banks is not only continuing her education she's excelling.
"I make the honor roll, yes, that's something I do," said Banks.
Jessica Trudeau, CAP Center executive director, said her organization aims to stop the cycle of child abuse through parenting education.
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"We are trying to show these young women, young men, families that they have it already in them. We're trying to teach them to be their own knight in shining armor, and that's exactly what Shannique has done," said Trudeau.
The center works mainly with low-income families who have a history of abuse. About 70 percent of moms who get help through CAP Center are teen mothers like Banks.
The teen mom's next stop is college, where she will study to become a social worker. And with all the help she has received, Banks said she can’t wait to return the favor.
"It's pointless to go through all this stuff and you can't give back because then what is it for? Why even do it?" said Banks.
The center is hosting a Celebrity Waiter Gala Saturday at the Hotel Palomar in Dallas. On April 29 there's a ceremony to raise awareness at the Old Red Courthouse in Dallas at 11:30 a.m. to encourage people to report, educate, volunteer and advocate for victims of abuse.
If you would like more information on either event please click here.
