Join CASA Kane County at Hands Around the Courthouse April 9

Posted March 31, 2026 11:34 pm

By Vicki Shaw, CASA Kane County

CASA Kane County invites the community to join Hands Around the Courthouse on Thursday, April 9 at noon at the Kane County Courthouse in Geneva.

This annual event is a powerful reminder of the urgent need to protect children from abuse and neglect while raising awareness about its lasting impact.

Held in observance of National Child Abuse Prevention Month, HATCH brings together community members, legal professionals, and child advocates to stand in unity for children in foster care.

Each year, CASA Kane County’s dedicated volunteers advocate for more than 600 children, ensuring their voices are heard and their best interests are represented. By participating in this event, attendees demonstrate a shared commitment to breaking the cycle of abuse and neglect.

This year’s program will feature remarks from Tarra Winters of Prevent Child Abuse Illinois, Chief Judge Robert Villa, and CASA Kane County Executive Director Jim Di Ciaula.

Speakers will provide insight into the current state of child welfare and share ways our community can make a meaningful difference.

Light refreshments will be served following the program, and attendees will have the opportunity to take home yard signs and informational materials to help spread awareness beyond the courthouse steps.

“Child Abuse Prevention Month is a powerful reminder that protecting children is a shared responsibility,” said Jim Di Ciaula, executive director. “Every child deserves to grow up safe, supported, and heard — and it takes all of us working together to make that possible.”

Six ways to get involved:

• Attend HATCH or join an upcoming general information meeting to learn how to become a CASA volunteer and advocate for children in foster care.

• Place a yard sign at your home, take a photo, and share it on social media while tagging CASA Kane County. (Contact amym@casakanecounty.org to arrange pickup; signs will also be available at HATCH.)

• Wear blue on Friday, April 10, 2026, to show your support for Child Abuse Prevention Month.

• Post the event flyer at your church, local business, or community board; contact elizabeths2@casakanecounty.org for a flyer to post.

• Like, comment, and share CASA Kane County’s social media posts throughout April on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and TikTok.

• Participate with your church or faith community in “Blue Sunday,” the National Day of Prayer for Abused Children and those who rescue them, on Sunday, April 26.

By participating in Hands Around the Courthouse, individuals can make a meaningful impact on the lives of children who need stability, safety, and hope.

CASA Kane County encourages everyone to attend and stand in support of this critical cause. For more information about Hands Around the Courthouse or to learn how to get involved, visit casakanecounty.org or call (630) 232-4484.

CASA Kane County is a nonprofit organization dedicated to serving the best interests of children in foster care through the advocacy of trained Court Appointed Special Advocate volunteers. Serving more than 600 children each year, CASA Kane County works to ensure every child’s voice is heard.