Marshall County Commissioners approve Pinwheel Garden to mark Child Abuse Prevention Month

Thursday, March 19, 2026 at 3:00 AM

By Kathy Bottorff

In recognition of National Child Abuse Prevention Month this April, local advocates are organizing a series of community events, including a symbolic pinwheel garden at the county courthouse.

Chasity Keller, Director of Marshall County CASA, and Melissa Bachtel from Wrapped in Love appeared before the Marshall County Commissioners on Monday to outline their plans and promote awareness.

This year’s national campaign theme is "Doing Things Differently: Believing in Communities," which emphasizes proactive community support for family well-being. To show solidarity and raise awareness for child protection, Friday, April 3, 2026, has been designated as "Wear Blue Day."

During the meeting, Bachtel requested permission to plant a pinwheel garden on the courthouse lawn, accompanied by a sign reading, “Stand Up for Children. No Excuse for Child Abuse.” She explained that the garden will feature exactly 84 pinwheels, representing the 84 children served by the Marshall County Division of Child Services (DCS) in 2025.

The planting is scheduled for Thursday, April 2, at 10 a.m., coinciding with the DCS CHINS (Child in Need of Services) court hearing date. Bachtel suggested placing the display along Jefferson Street for maximum visibility.

The commissioners unanimously approved the request. Commissioner Adam Faulstich will coordinate with county maintenance to determine the best specific location for the display.

In addition to the pinwheel garden, Keller invited the commissioners to a special kickoff ceremony at the Bowen Health Center on Tuesday, March 31, from noon to 1 p.m. The event will feature guest speakers, representatives from DCS, and Plymouth Mayor Robert Listenberger. Lunch will be provided for attendees.

The month's activities will culminate in a free family carnival on Saturday, April 25, from noon to 2 p.m. at Plymouth High School. Bachtel shared that the event will feature carnival games, a photo booth, balloon artists, face painting, safety awareness activities, prizes, and free food while supplies last.

Families must pre-register to ensure admission by visiting MarshallFamilyCarnival2026.eventbrite.com. The carnival is sponsored by Geminus, Indiana DCS, and Community Partners for Child Safety.

For more information or questions regarding the upcoming events, residents can call 574-318-4825.