“Children need strong families to grow and thrive safely, and families need supportive communities to rely on during difficult times,” said Julie Murphy, program director at Cope. “We can all play a role in building a strong and resilient community for the children and families of the Napa Valley.”

Blue Ribbon Month is an opportunity to learn more about child abuse in our community, raise awareness of how to prevent it, and find out how each of us can take small steps that can make a big difference.

New this year is a virtual walkathon that encourages the community to run 40 miles on foot in April in honor of the estimated 40 monthly victims of child abuse in 2020 while raising funds for Cope’s prevention programs. People can register as individuals or as a team and set their own donation goals.

Cope has also partnered with Nimbus Art for a community art project that will be exhibited in Napa and St. Helena. “After a traumatic year of stress, isolation, fear and loss, this project will create important social connections through art to inspire hope and healing by drawing on the themes and spirit of spring – renewal, hope, healing, vitality and a new beginning. Said Jamie Graff, managing director of Nimbus Arts.

Another way to get the word out is by entering the Blue Ribbon Scavenger Hunt and Instagram Contest. Visit the scavenger hunt locations, snap a selfie and post on Instagram for awareness raising, and compete to win weekly prizes.