The Champaign County Department of Job and Family Services (DJFS) is joining child protection agencies across Ohio in asking local organizations to “Wear Blue to Work” on April 12.

Stacy Cox, Social Services Administrator for the Champaign County DJFS, said the department is asking for businesses, agencies and individuals to wear blue to work on Wednesday, April 12, to show a united front against child abuse. Cox said April is National Child Abuse Prevention Month and next week’s initiative is aimed at bringing awareness to child abuse prevention.

In 2016, Cox said, the local DJFS conducted a total of 299 investigations and/or assessments, from reports to the agency, that were at the level of a clear allegation of neglect or abuse toward a child.

Agencies and organizations wishing to sign up to participate in the April 12 event, Cox said, can contact Amber Spence at 937-484-1500, ext. 2754.

Companies and organizations that register will be provided with a “Wear Blue to Work” poster, informational sheet and stickers that can be worn throughout the entire month.

As of Thursday, Spence said, 15 organizations with 250 participants had signed up to participate in the event.

In addition to next week’s event, the DJFS will hold a Family and Community Movie Night. “The Lego Batman Movie” will be shown April 20 at the Gloria Theatre, 216 S. Main St.

The movie will be free and a small popcorn and drink will be provided. Doors open at 7 p.m. and seating is limited to the first 350 guests.