NATIONAL BE SOMEONE DAY
Fast Facts
- WHEN
- Celebrated each year on July 21st
- FOUNDER
- Founded in 2021 by Project Harmony
- PURPOSE
- Make a difference in a child's life
- VIBE
- Child abuse awareness
NATIONAL BE SOMEONE DAY
On July 21, National Be Someone Day challenges each of us to take ten seconds to make a difference in a child's life.
#BeSomeoneDay
What can you do in ten seconds? We can shift gears, water a plant or tell a bad joke. In ten seconds, we can change our minds and say a prayer of thanks. When we walk into a room, in that time, we can register the pain in someone's eyes and begin to provide comfort. In child advocacy, it takes one stable, caring adult to completely alter a child's trajectory and build resilience against trauma.
Studies in child development consistently show that the presence of just one supportive, reliable adult can act as a powerful buffer against the long-term effects of adversity and abuse.
We can also commit to reporting child abuse. On July 21st, take the pledge to be the person to make a difference in a child's life. Most importantly, be someone prepared to report when a child trusts you enough and tells you they are experiencing abuse. Ten seconds can change a child's life.
HOW TO OBSERVE NATIONAL BE SOMEONE DAY
Be someone who changes a child's life for the good. Take the pledge on July 21st to report child abuse. Project Be Someone provides five steps to prepare you:
5 Steps to Be Supportive and Understanding
Learn the Facts
Child abuse is not one race or demographic. It happens in all communities, to all ages of children and teens, both male and female.
Minimize Opportunity
Ensure open communication and safe environments where possible. Try to minimize unmonitored situations between adults and children.
Talk About It
Bring the topic of child safety into normal conversations so they know it isn't a taboo topic. All children need to know they can speak about hurtful or scary topics and still feel safe.
Know the Signs
Recognize changes in behavior, unexplained injuries, or sudden withdrawal. Children in harmful situations tend to show specific behaviors that are out of character.
React Responsibly
Stay calm if a child discloses abuse. It's important to reassure them it isn't their fault. Let the child know you are grateful they confided in you and you are going to do everything you can to keep them safe.
Childhelp National Child Abuse Hotline
If you suspect child abuse or neglect, you don't need absolute proof to report it. Contact local Child Protective Services (CPS) or law enforcement. You can also call or text the Childhelp National Child Abuse Hotline at 1-800-422-4453 for 24/7, confidential support from professional counselors.
Join the conversation using #BeSomeoneDay and share it on social media.
NATIONAL BE SOMEONE DAY HISTORY
Project Harmony founded #Be Someone Day to help end child abuse and bring communities together through education and awareness.
The Registrar at National Day Calendar proclaimed the day to be observed annually on July 21st.