MURFREESBORO, Tenn. — Blue pinwheels now spinning outside the Rutherford County Sheriff’s Office serve as a visible reminder of a serious mission: protecting children and promoting safe, healthy futures.

To mark the start of National Child Abuse Prevention Month in April, detectives with the Sheriff’s Office joined employees from the Department of Children’s Services to place the pinwheels at the agency’s entrance on New Salem Highway. The display will remain throughout the month as part of a broader effort to raise awareness about child abuse and prevention resources.

Detective Sgt. Amanda McPherson said the pinwheels carry a deeper meaning beyond their bright, eye-catching appearance.

“The pinwheels represent childlike whimsy and lightheartedness and the vision for a world where all children can grow up happy, healthy and prepared to succeed,” McPherson said.

The initiative is part of the nationwide Pinwheels for Prevention® campaign, launched in 2008 by Prevent Child Abuse America. The campaign uses the symbol of the pinwheel to inspire communities to focus on strengthening families and creating environments where children can thrive.

Throughout April, local agencies are encouraging residents to learn more about recognizing and preventing abuse, as well as supporting families in need. Officials emphasize that prevention starts with awareness and community involvement.

Resources for families and information about services for abused children are available through the Child Advocacy Center of Rutherford and Cannon Counties, which works closely with law enforcement and social services to assist young victims and promote healing.

Community leaders hope the pinwheel display will not only draw attention but also spark conversations about how everyone can play a role in protecting children.