Leaders in Madison County have issued a joint proclamation recognizing April as Child Abuse Prevention Month and honoring the work of the National Children’s Advocacy Center.

The proclamation, signed by Tommy Battle, Ranae Bartlett and Rex Vaughn, also names April 7, 2026, as “National Children’s Advocacy Center Day.”

The NCAC was founded in Huntsville in 1985 by former Congressman Bud Cramer. It was the first Children’s Advocacy Center in the country and changed how child abuse cases are handled by bringing investigators, medical staff and support services together in one place.

Since then, the center has worked with thousands of children and families in Huntsville, Madison and across Madison County. Its approach focuses on making sure children can be interviewed and treated in a setting designed for them.

The organization also works on prevention. Staff members go into schools and the community to teach people how to recognize signs of abuse and what to do if they see it.

That model has spread far beyond North Alabama. There are now more than 1,000 Children’s Advocacy Centers across the United States and dozens more around the world. The NCAC continues to train professionals from across the country, including law enforcement, social workers and prosecutors.

Local leaders said the proclamation is meant to recognize both that history and the work that continues today.

April is recognized nationwide as Child Abuse Prevention Month. Officials say it’s a time to focus on awareness and encourage people to take an active role in protecting children.

The proclamation calls on residents to stay aware, support local efforts and look out for children in their communities.

For Huntsville, leaders say the recognition also reflects the city’s connection to a model that has been used around the world.

Even after 40 years, they say the mission remains the same: making sure children are safe and supported.