For the purpose of this position, an at-risk child is defined as one who may be prevented from achieving full potential because of abuse, neglect, mental or physical disabilities, or behavioral disorders. A position of LWVUS addresses early intervention.

Every child has the right to grow up in a safe and supportive environment.

Left untreated, some of today’s children at risk may become tomorrow’s juvenile offenders and the future’s adult offenders. In general, neglect of at-risk children may lead to higher cost to society later.

The League supports education of the public about the need for early identification of children at risk, related societal and individual problems, and potential solutions.

Social service agencies serving at-risk children should be adequately staffed and funded. Community resources should be coordinated.

Intervention and preventive treatment should begin as early as possible. The entire family group should be involved.