Explore Our History
For nearly five decades, Prevent Child Abuse Delaware has grown, evolved, and innovated in its mission to protect children and strengthen families. From our early days as a small Wilmington-based program to becoming a statewide leader in prevention education and evidence-based training, our history reflects a commitment to adapting to community needs, advancing best practices, and creating safer environments for all children in Delaware. Explore our timeline to see key milestones, transformative programs, and the lasting impact of our work over the years.
1977-1980s: Foundation & Early Growth
1977 – Founded as Parents Anonymous of Delaware in Wilmington with one program serving four clients
1978 – Incorporated as independent 501(c)(3) organization
1983 – Became chapter of National Committee to Prevent Child Abuse; launched Nurturing Program for pregnant teens and teenage parents
1984 – Introduced prevention education for children, youth, and young adults
1987 – Expanded statewide with offices in northern and southern Delaware
1990s: Program Expansion & Rebranding
1989 – Took over statewide Foster Parent In-Service Training
1991 – Renamed to “Delawareans United to Prevent Child Abuse”
1994 – Launched “Don’t Shake the Baby” program to prevent Shaken Baby Syndrome
1996 – Formalized Blue Ribbon Campaign, distributing 30,000+ ribbons annually
1999 – Renamed to “Prevent Child Abuse Delaware”; moved to larger downtown Wilmington offices
2000s: Strategic Focus Shift
2002 – Created “Kids are Special” materials, including Spanish-language resources
2004 – Major pivot: Shifted focus from direct services to prevention training; designated as lead agency for federal CBCAP grant
2005 – Became federal grantor for first time; implemented Olweus Bullying Prevention Program
2007 – Created comprehensive “Child Abuse & Neglect 101” training for professionals
2010s-2020s: Evidence-Based Programs
2011 – Partnered with Beau Biden Foundation to bring Stewards of Children program to Delaware
2017 – Created signature B.E. S.M.A.R.T. program – original, trauma-informed personal safety curriculum for grades 1-4
2019 – Expanded B.E. S.M.A.R.T. to serve pre-K through 6th grade in 15 school districts and charter schools
2024 – B.E. S.M.A.R.T. expanded to grades 7-8; approved as Erin’s Law compliant
2025 – Named primary beneficiary of Diamond State Financial Group Cares Golf Tournament
Key Transformations
1970s-1990s:
Direct service provider with expanding programs
2000s:
Strategic shift to training and prevention focus
2010s-Present:
Developer of evidence-based, original curriculum and statewide training leader