Child Abuse Prevention
The Y works to ensure all children are protected.
The Greater Wichita YMCA is committed to providing a safe environment for every individual.
One in 10 children in the U.S. will be sexually abused by the time he or she turns 18. In most of these cases, the perpetrator is a family member, friend, teacher, coach, or another child.
To meet our mission and to continue the Y’s leadership on service to the community, the Y has developed standards, guidelines, and training to aid in the detection and prevention of child abuse.
The Y team
- All staff and volunteers have background checks conducted prior to contact with children.
- All staff and volunteers participate in annual child abuse prevention training.
- All staff and volunteers are required to sign and abide by our Code of Conduct.
- All staff and volunteers are mandated reporters of suspected child abuse.
- All staff and volunteers are to adhere to the guidelines regarding appropriate physical and verbal interactions with youth.
Members, Guests, and Participants
- The Greater Wichita YMCA screens all members, guests, and program participants against a national sex offender registry. This screening process is part of our commitment to child abuse prevention and part of our overall mission in the community.
Know. See. Respond.
Help the Y Protect Children from Abuse
1. KNOW
Know how to recognize boundary violations and how offenders operate. It’s up to us as adults to do all we can to prevent child sexual abuse and create safe environments for children. Teaching children about their bodies, recognizing warning signs, and responding to any concerns are important first steps. Even very young children can learn some skills to help keep themselves safe from sexual abuse, but it’s up to parents to help them learn what they need to know. Here are some important things you can teach that will help you help your child stay safe.
2. SEE
Keep your eyes and ears open for signs of abuse and talk with your child, asking them about your concerns. If something is wrong, you may see a sudden change in your child’s behavior, or you may hear unusual comments. If you see or hear these things, follow up. Find a relaxed time to talk with them.
3. RESPOND
If you see warning signs from your child or adult, or you hear about something that sounds like abuse, report it immediately. If your child tells you about sexual abuse or inappropriate behavior, here’s how to react. Your response plays a big role in how your child understands abuse and how he/she recovers.
- Stay calm.
- Comfort your child.
- Listen carefully.
- Ask for examples.
- Do not threaten or criticize the person your child is accusing.
Form for YMCA Members and Guests to Report Abuse Concerns