Statistics show that 1 in 4 girls and 1 in 6 boys are sexually abused by the time they turn 18. If childhood sexual abuse can be prevented, it can be stopped. Through awareness, education and prevention, children can move from silence to exuberance. Adults can move from ignorance to empowerment.
Darkness to Light, a nationally acclaimed non-profit organization, created the Stewards of Children to do just that. Stewards of Children is a prevention training program that teaches adults how to prevent, recognize, and react responsibly to child sexual abuse. The program is designed for organizations that serve youth and for individuals concerned about the safety of children. Stewards of Children is the only evidence-based training available nationally that is proven to increase knowledge, improve attitudes and change child protective behavior. Our goal is simple: to educate adults on how to recognize, prevent and react responsibly to child sexual abuse. Child safety is every adult's responsibility.
The Hamilton Area YMCA has partnered with Darkness to Light to bring its award-winning prevention program, Stewards of Children, to our community. We have set a goal of training 5% of the adult population in Mercer Counties in the Stewards of Children training over the next 5 years. That means we need YOU to participate. You can be a school, not-for-profit, for-profit, EMT, Fire/police departments, city government, or a concerned citizen.
Take the first step in protecting children. Now through December 2014, free online training is available.
Click here to find out what your Y is doing to create a child safe environment.
Leran more about Partners In Prevention here.
Click here to read The Hamilton Area YMCA Employee Standards of Conduct.
We can all make a difference in the lives of children. Join us in becoming a Partner in Prevention. For more information on this program or an in-person training for your group, please contact Jill Makkay at 609.581.9622 ext. 122 or jmakkay@hamiltonymca.org.