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Raising Awareness Against Child Sexual Abuse

Five Days Of Action

April marks Child Abuse Prevention Month, and as part of our unwavering dedication to safeguarding the children in our community, we are actively participating in the Five Days of Action initiative. This week-long campaign, starting April 15 and ending April 19, is designed to heighten awareness surrounding child sexual abuse and empower individuals with the knowledge and tools needed to prevent it. By participating in this vital endeavor and implementing ongoing abuse prevention measures, we can ensure that the safety and well-being of all children within our community.

This year, we are proud to reintroduce the Know. See. Respond. campaign, supported by valuable resources from Childhelp, Common Sense Media and Committee for Children.

KNOW:

Understanding the realities of child sexual abuse is paramount in our efforts to protect children. As parents, caregivers, and trusted adults, it is essential that we familiarize ourselves with the various forms of abuse, recognize the signs, and KNOW how to take preventive action. Explore invaluable insights and guidance on identifying abuse and supporting children at childhelphotline.org.

SEE:

In today’s digitally driven world, media and technology are integral parts of children’s lives. However, not all online content is suitable or safe for young audiences. As caregivers, we have a responsibility to monitor and SEE children’s online experiences to ensure their safety. Discover essential tools and resources for promoting online safety at commonsensemedia.org/articles/online-safety.

RESPOND:

RESPONDing effectively to the call for child sexual abuse prevention requires proactive measures, including open and honest conversations with children. Committee for Children’s Hot Chocolate Talk campaign offers invaluable resources and guides to assist parents and caregivers in initiating these crucial discussions at every stage of a child’s development. Equip yourself with the necessary tools to empower children to report and resist sexual abuse by visiting cfchildren.org/resources/child-abuse-prevention/.

Our commitment to protecting children is unwavering, and we urge our community members to join us in this important endeavor. Together, we can create a safer and more secure environment for all children.

YMCA NEWS

SUMMIT AREA YMCA

BERKELEY HEIGHTS YMCA | SUMMIT YMCA | THE LEARNING CIRCLE YMCA

In 1886, we were founded as the Young Men’s Christian Association, but today, we are The Y; an association that values, and is made stronger by, its diverse people. We stand for youth development, healthy living and social responsibility — For a better us. We are committed to creating equal opportunity for all regardless of gender, age, disability, income, ethnicity, sexual orientation or religious affiliation. We strive to create a welcoming and inclusive culture in which our four core values — responsibility, honesty, caring and respect — are integral to everyday operations.

Each year, as one of the area’s leading 501(c)3 charitable organizations, the Summit Area YMCA serves more than 15,000 individuals with our free and fee-based programs and services in an area spanning the New Jersey communities of Berkeley Heights, Gillette, Millburn, New Providence, Short Hills, Springfield, Stirling and Summit. Our history is rooted in working side-by-side with our neighbors to ensure that everyone has the opportunity to learn, grow and thrive. Through the generosity of our members, donors, and partners, we are able to offer financial assistance for our programs and services to those in need.

Please note that the section of Maple Street closest to the Summit YMCA will be closed from approximately 7 AM to 11 AM on Sunday, May 5, for our Mother’s Day 5K. Please use Cedar Street to access the public lot that is next to our building.