In recognition of Bullying Prevention Month and in memory of children lost to abuse, bullying, and violence, community leaders are launching the Indiana Child Safety Campaign – a first-of-its-kind statewide effort to make child safety Indiana’s top legislative and community priority.

The campaign kickoff is set for Thursday, Oct. 16, from 6:00 to 7:30 p.m. at the Lexington Event Center, 112 East Lexington Ave. in Elkhart. The event is free and open to the public.

Indiana State Legislators Dale DeVon and Linda Rogers will join Rio Allred’s family, community advocates, educators, and parents to raise awareness and inspire action to protect Hoosier children. The evening will also feature a special address from Niki Ball, mother of Rio Allred, marking her first public appearance since her daughter’s passing.

Organizers say the event aims to unite families, educators, advocates, and policymakers in addressing the challenges facing children across the state – from bullying and online exploitation to community violence.

“Our children are the heart of Indiana’s future, and they deserve to feel safe, loved, and protected in every space they enter,” said Shayne Gary, a parent advocate with the Speak Our Truth Project. “This campaign is a chance for all of us – parents, neighbors, educators, and leaders – to come together, listen, and take action.”

Local organizer and teacher Carrie Shank added that today’s youth face new and complex risks. “There are now infinite methods to communicate, connect, and be influenced,” she said. “Every child deserves a childhood protected and nurtured by their family, school, and community. The time is now.”

Organizers are encouraging all Indiana elected officials to attend and for residents to invite their representatives to participate. Both in-person and online attendees will have an opportunity to take part in an interactive Q&A session.