Parental child abduction is the #1 cause of missing children cases in the United States. Behind each case lies a painful story—often rooted in custody battles and family conflict—that leaves families devastated, children traumatized, and justice delayed.

Helpspan.org (Help Stop Parental-child Abduction Now) was founded in 2005, following the abduction of 6-year-old Ian Castillo. Since then, we’ve led a nationwide movement to protect children from this preventable tragedy and ensure no child is left behind due to legal loopholes or outdated law.

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What We Do

Enacting Enforceable Laws:
Since 2008, Helpspan.org has helped pass child protection legislation in eight U.S. states, extending coverage to all missing children—including runaways in danger—from birth through age 18 (or majority per state law). These laws ensure eligible cases are reported to the Missing Person Clearinghouse, empowering law enforcement to issue AMBER Alerts without delay.

 

Holding Abductors Accountable:
Our legislative framework includes enforceable penalties for abducting parents and their accomplices. By closing legal gaps, we deter repeat offenses and elevate the seriousness of parental abduction under state law.

 

Prioritizing Child Safety:
Helpspan’s model legislation recognizes Parental Alienation Syndrome in some jurisdictions and aims to streamline custody proceedings in high-conflict cases—ensuring child welfare remains the top priority.

 

Protecting Parental Rights:
We advocate for unwed parental rights, allowing a child’s birth certificate or undisputed paternity to establish protections and bypass harmful delays in legal recognition.

 

Why It Matters

The impact of parental abduction is severe and long-lasting. Children may experience emotional trauma, disrupted development, and even physical harm. Parents left behind face years of legal struggles, emotional distress, and mounting financial burdens. This crisis is both preventable and solvable—with the right laws in place.

 

How You Can Help

Donate – Fund legislative efforts and outreach programs.
Volunteer – Share your time, expertise, or legal skills.
Spread Awareness – Share our mission with your network and community.
Contact Lawmakers – Urge your state representatives to adopt anti-parental child abduction laws.

 

Our Goal

A future where every state enforces clear protections against parental child abduction. A future where every child feels safe, seen, and secure—with equal access to both parents and a justice system that protects them.

Together, we can end the silence around parental child abduction. Join us.

🌐 Visit Helpspan.org to take action.