ELKINS – The Randolph County Commission approved the reading of three proclamations during its most recent meeting held at the Commission Annex.

The Proclamations, which included Child Abuse Prevent Month, Sexual Assault Awareness Month and Crime Victims’ Rights, were approved by Commissioners David Kesling and Cris Siler

Kesling provided a portion of the Child Abuse Prevention Month Proclamation to those attending the meeting.

“Whereas children are vital to the future of our community and deserve to grow up in a safe and nurturing environment free of abuse, neglect, and exploitation,” Kesling read. “Whereas child abuse and neglect are serious issues that impact the well being of children, families, and communities across our nation including right here in Randolph County…The Randolph County Commission hereby recognizes April 2026 as Child Abuse Prevention Month in Randolph County.”

Child Abuse Prevention Month is recognized nationally during the month of April and in 2008 the Pinwheels for Prevention Campaign began. The pinwheels, which are scattered in gardens and yards throughout communities, serve as a reminder that we all play a role in children’s lives.

Kesling later Proclaimed the month of April as Sexual Assault Awareness Month in Randolph County and Katelyn Schauman from Centers Against Violence addressed the Commissioners.

“April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month and is a time dedicated to raising awareness, supporting survivors, and strengthening our commitment to prevention,” Schauman said. “Sexual violence impacts individuals of all ages, backgrounds, and communities. It is far more common than many realize and its effects can be long lasting.”

Schauman, the Sexual Assault Coordinator for CAV, told the Randolph County Commissioners that her organization offers a variety of different services for the community.

“At Centers Against Violence we work every day to support survivors of sexual assault and abuse,” Schauman said. “Our services are free, confidential and available to anyone in need. We provide crisis intervention, advocacy, hospital accompaniment, legal support, counseling referrals, and education to help prevent violence before it happens.”

The third and final Proclamation appearing on the agenda was for Crime Victims’ Rights. Melinda Boggs, the Randolph County Prosecuting Attorney’s Victims Services Coordinator, addressed the Commissioners.

“National Crime Victims’ Rights Week is April 19 through April 25 and the 2026 theme is to listen, act, advocate, protect victims, and serve communities,” Boggs said. “This year’s theme is a powerful call to action, one that reminds us that supporting victims of crime requires more than awareness. It requires intentional listening, meaningful action, and unwavering advocacy. Listening is the first and most important step in supporting victims and survivors.”

After Boggs’ presentation, Kesling proclaimed the Randolph County Commission’s support to Crime Victims’ Rights and its commitment to promoting fairness, dignity, and respect to all victims of crime.

Due to early voting in Randolph County, the Commission’s next meeting has been moved from May 7 to May 14. The County Commission’s second meeting of next month will be on May 28.