Pinwheels Highlight Child Abuse Prevention in Vacaville

Local organizations plant hundreds of pinwheels to raise awareness during Child Abuse Prevention Month

Apr. 7, 2026 at 11:22pm

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An abstract, out-of-focus photograph of a field of spinning blue and silver pinwheels, representing the community's efforts to raise awareness and promote child abuse prevention.The vibrant display of spinning pinwheels symbolizes the community's shared commitment to protecting children and promoting prevention efforts during Child Abuse Prevention Month.Vacaville Today

Despite chilly weather, local organizations in Vacaville, California gathered outside the police department to plant hundreds of blue and silver pinwheels across the front lawn. The annual Pinwheels for Prevention event aims to raise awareness about child abuse and promote prevention efforts across the region during April's Child Abuse Prevention Month.

Why it matters

Child abuse is a serious issue in Solano County, with over 3,400 children identified as potential victims in 2025. The Pinwheels for Prevention event is a symbolic way to highlight the community's commitment to protecting children and supporting families before situations reach a crisis point.

The details

The Pinwheels for Prevention event brought together various local organizations, including the Solano County Office of Education, the City of Vacaville, Police Activities League, the Children's Network of Solano County, Solano CAPC members, and CASA of Solano. Each of the hundreds of pinwheels planted represents three children reported as neglected or abused in Solano County last year, creating a powerful visual display.

  • The Pinwheels for Prevention event took place on Tuesday, April 7, 2026.
  • A similar event is scheduled to take place on Monday in partnership with the Fairfield Police Department.

The players

Vacaville Police Capt. Katie Cardona

Cardona emphasized the importance of community involvement in child abuse prevention, stating that it is not just a law enforcement issue but a community issue that requires awareness, support, and action from teachers, neighbors, friends, and family members.

Vacaville Police Sgt. Carly Sone

Sone was photographed planting a pinwheel along the sidewalk in front of the Police Department during the Pinwheels for Prevention event.

Mariah Padilla

A member of the Police Activities League, Padilla was also photographed planting pinwheels on the lawn in front of the Vacaville Police Department.

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What they’re saying

“It is really meaningful to see our community come together for something that matters so deeply. April is Child Abuse Prevention Month. It is a time that reminds us of our shared responsibility to protect some of the most vulnerable members of the community: our children. Every child deserves the chance to grow up in a safe, supportive environment where they can thrive and feel valued.”

— Vacaville Police Capt. Katie Cardona

“Behind each of these numbers is a child, a family, and a story that matters. Our Vacaville Police officers and detectives, especially those in our special victims unit, responded to and investigated over 500 cases of child abuse last year. That work is not easy. It requires compassion, professionalism, and a deep commitment to protecting others. I want to thank them for the work they do every single day.”

— Vacaville Police Capt. Katie Cardona

“Prevention starts with awareness. It starts with the people who are willing to speak up, check in, and support families before situations reach a crisis. Teachers, neighbors, friends, and family members all play a critical role in recognizing the signs and taking action.”

— Vacaville Police Capt. Katie Cardona

What’s next

A similar Pinwheels for Prevention event is scheduled to take place on Monday in partnership with the Fairfield Police Department.

The takeaway

The Pinwheels for Prevention event in Vacaville highlights the community's commitment to child abuse prevention and the importance of collective action. By raising awareness, supporting families, and recognizing warning signs, residents can play a crucial role in creating a safer, stronger community where every child has the opportunity to thrive.