The Greater Phoenix Child Abuse Prevention Council is one of 17 “CAP” councils in the state. Through the Division of Children, Youth, and Families, the Arizona Department of Economic Security (ADES) is able to contract with Regional Child Abuse Prevention Councils (CAP Councils) through ARS§ 431-1954.A.5. ADES has contracted with CAP Councils since 1991 because it is recognized that child-abuse is a community-based problem and success of prevention efforts demand a community-based response. The CAP Councils are primarily voluntary groups of child welfare workers, community members, school personnel, and other professionals located in 17 different regions in the state of Arizona, providing education and information aimed at the community as a whole. In addition to providing awareness, the CAP Councils advocate for effective prevention programs and policies. CAP Councils meet on a regular basis for public events, educational meetings and presentations. Through the ADES contract, CAP Councils are mandated to provide two campaigns each year: The Income Tax Check-Off Event and April Child Abuse Prevention Month Event.

In 1996, a coalition of social service professionals and community volunteers who shared a vision to increase the awareness of the problem of child abuse and neglect formed the Phoenix-area council. The Greater Phoenix Child Abuse Prevention Council (GPCAPC ) was under the umbrella of the Phoenix Crisis Nursery, Inc. until it secured nonprofit status in 2001. Like the other 16 councils, it now provides a forum for community volunteers and non-profit agencies that have a stake in children and families to work together in primary prevention efforts. The Council’s mission is to heighten public awareness and raise the visibility of programs and policies that ensure the safety and well being of children. It serves as a hub by which child welfare organizations in the greater Phoenix area gather for educational and networking experiences. The agencies who are currently members of the GPCAPC directly serve children and families that have either demonstrated positive outcomes or who are innovative and have positive potential outcomes in primary prevention.