Parental child abduction is the #1 cause of missing children in the United States.
Behind every case is a painful story, rooted in custody disputes, legal gaps, and broken systems, that leaves families devastated, children traumatized, and justice delayed.

Helpspan.org (Help Stop Parental Child Abduction Now) was founded in 2005 after the abduction of 6-year-old Ian Castillo. Since then, we’ve led a growing national movement to end this preventable crisis, ensuring no child is left behind because of outdated laws or system failures.

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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. These laws mandate reporting for all missing children, including runaways who are in danger, through age 18 (or the age of majority under state law). They empower law enforcement agencies to act swiftly and issue AMBER Alerts without delay.

 

Holding Abductors Accountable
Our legislative framework establishes clear penalties for parents and family members and accomplices who abduct or conceal the whereabouts of the          child(ren) by closing legal loopholes which deter repeat offenses and elevate the seriousness of parental abduction under state law up to felony charges.

 

Prioritizing Child Safety
We advocate for judicial recognition of Parental Alienation Syndrome in applicable jurisdictions and work to streamline custody proceedings in high-conflict cases, ensuring the child’s well-being remains the focus. 

 

Protecting Parental Rights
Helpspan promotes fair protections for unwed parents. We support policies that allow birth certificates or undisputed paternity to establish legal standing, eliminating custodial hearing delays that can place children at further risk.

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Why It Matters

The trauma caused by parental abduction is deep and lasting. Children face emotional, psychological, and sometimes physical harm.  Parents can endure years of legal battles, emotional pain, and financial hardship. The scars can last a lifetime. This crisis is preventable, but only with strong laws, informed advocacy, and committed support.

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How You Can Help

Donate – Support our legislative and outreach efforts. This is a grass-roots initiative and is solely dependent upon our combined efforts and the support from you.

Volunteer – Contribute your time, skills, or legal expertise to ensure our goal of national legislation.

Spread Awareness – Share our mission within your community. Social media and word of mouth are very powerful ways in which you can bring forth this legislation into your state.

Contact Lawmakers – Encourage your state representatives to take action and support a helpspan bill in your state.

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Our Goal

We envision a future where every state enforces clear, consistent protections against parental child abduction. A future where every child is safe, supported, and protected, and where the legal system stands firmly in defense of their rights.

Together, we can end this horrific abuse of children and stop parental child abduction across America.