Prevent Child Abuse Arizona

Overview

Prevent Child Abuse Arizona (PCAA) is a statewide nonprofit organization dedicated to preventing child maltreatment. It operates as part of a national network of state chapters under Prevent Child Abuse America. PCAA focuses on equipping individuals and organizations with tools and information to enhance child well-being across Arizona.

Mission and Strategy

The organization's primary mission is to prevent child abuse and neglect by strengthening families. This is achieved by promoting five key protective factors:

• Knowledge of Parenting & Child Development: Educating parents about effective parenting techniques and understanding child development stages.
• Social & Emotional Competence of Children: Helping children develop emotional intelligence and social skills.
• Parental Resilience: Building parents' capacity to manage stress and adversity.
• Social Connections: Encouraging strong, supportive social networks.
• Concrete Support in Times of Need: Providing tangible resources and assistance during difficult situations.

Programs and Partnerships

PCAA collaborates with various sectors, including early childhood education, child welfare, behavioral health, family support services, law enforcement, and the judicial system. These partnerships allow PCAA to deliver comprehensive prevention strategies at primary, secondary, and tertiary levels. The organization offers training programs for community professionals and new parents, focusing on early intervention through birthing hospitals, home visiting, and early childhood programs.

Impact

Since its inception in 1989, PCAA has been instrumental in developing and implementing prevention services tailored to community needs. The organization impacts more than 60,000 individuals annually through its array of child abuse prevention services. This extensive reach is made possible by strong community engagement and donor support.

Leadership and Governance

Prevent Child Abuse Arizona is led by a diverse board of directors with experience in child and family advocacy. The board emphasizes formal orientation for new members, CEO oversight, ethics and transparency, inclusive board composition, and performance assessments. These governance practices ensure that PCAA remains accountable and effective in its mission to advance child well-being.