Abuse Prevention
The Boothbay Region YMCA recognizes our vital responsibility as a youth-serving organization to protect every individual in our care. This includes a strong commitment to preventing child sexual abuse. We maintain zero tolerance for any form of child abuse and take proactive, comprehensive steps to identify, prevent, and address potential risks to the safety and well-being of children at the YMCA.
Our commitment to child safety includes:
- Child Abuse Prevention Handbook for Employees and Volunteers
- Code of Conduct for staff and volunteers
- Child safety expectations for program participants
- Screening, hiring, and supervisory practices consistent with best practices
- Guidelines for a safe physical environment and technological use
- Guidelines for responding to and reporting suspected, observed or disclosed instances of abuse and neglect
- Access to training and education programs and materials about child sexual abuse.
- Background checks on members, staff, and volunteers
Report Abuse
You do not need proof that abuse is occurring to make a report, only reasonable suspicion. Reporting child sexual abuse is key to preventing and intervening in abuse.
If you believe a child is in immediate danger of harm, call 911 first.
Report YMCA Concerns or Policy Violations
If what you learn from your child, or if what you've observed or overheard sounds like a boundary violation, suspicious or inappropriate behavior, or policy violation, share your concerns with your CEO. If you are unable to do this, you can share your concerns anonymously.
Parent/Guardian Resources
Educational Videos and Information by Praesidium
• Abuse Prevention Introduction
• Recognize Abuse and it’s Warning Signs
• How to Talk to Youth About Abuse
• How to Respond to Child Abuse
• 6 Key Questions a Parent Should Ask of a Camp
Online Trainings
Online Trainings for Parents & Caregivers by U.S. Center for SafeSport
The U.S. Center for SafeSport produces online abuse awareness and prevention courses.
Click here to access all online training materials. After following the link, click on the “Get Trained Now” button. This will take you to the Learning Management System, where you can create a free account and access the trainings.
Child Sexual Abuse Prevention Online Training by Darkness to Light.
Darkness to Light offers training that specializes in the education and prevention of child sexual abuse, other forms of abuse and mandated reporting. Click here to access all online training materials.