MOUNTAIN LAKES — In recognition of Child Sexual Abuse Awareness Month in April, the Lakeland Hills Family YMCA will be offering information to help prevent child abuse during the entire month. The Y encourages all individuals and organizations to play a role in making our local communities a better place for children and families.
Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany has been placing pinwheels throughout Parsippany. The pinwheel serves as the national symbol for child abuse prevention. It is a reflection of hope, health and safety.
Together we can prevent child abuse by ensuring that adults have the knowledge, skills, and resources they need to prevent, recognize, and react responsibly.
One in ten children experiences the trauma of child sexual abuse before age 18, typically at the hands of someone they know and trust.
As adults, we are responsible for protecting children and educating ourselves to prevent, recognize, and react responsibly to child sexual abuse.
The Y promotes the following five Steps to Protecting Our Children™ (an initiative of Darkness to Light): Learn the Facts, Minimize Opportunity, Talk About It, Recognize the Signs, and React Responsibly. “Protecting children is of the utmost importance and April reminds us that child abuse is a threat to children in all communities,” said Vik Joganow, CEO at Lakeland Hills Y. “Adults should learn the facts about child sexual abuse and be prepared to intervene to protect the children in their lives.”
Everyone is invited to a special workshop presented in partnership with Prevent Child Abuse New Jersey and the Kiwanis Club of Greater called “Prevention Matters: Child Abuse and Neglect” on Thursday, April 20 from 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Pre-registration is preferred either online or by calling the Y at (973) 334-2820.
The Lakeland Hills YMCA is located at 100 Fanny Road, Mountain Lakes. Click here for additional information on programs and activities.
