YMCA aims to protect children from sex abuse

The Metropolitan YMCA of the Oranges, which includes the Sussex County YMCA and Fairview Lake YMCA Camps, is participating in the Five Days of Action, April 15-19.

The weeklong campaign aims to raise awareness and inspire adults to take action to protect children from sexual abuse. The Y will share statistics and resources throughout the week and invite members to take the pledge to protect children from sexual abuse.

“The children in our communities have the right to a happy and safe childhood, and it’s our responsibility as adults and organizations to stand up to protect that right,” said Richard Gorab, president and chief executive of the Metropolitan YMCA of the Oranges. “By joining in the Five Days of Action’s ‘KNOW. SEE. RESPOND.’ campaign, we hope to inspire other organizations and members of our communities to create safe spaces that protect children from sexual abuse.”

One in 10 children are sexually abused before their 18th birthday, according to statistics.

The Metro YMCA of the Oranges recently joined a small group of YMCAs around the world to achieve full accreditation from Praesidium, the leader in abuse risk management.

The Metro YMCA of the Oranges, with support from the YMCA Champions for Child Protection, YMCA of the USA, Darkness to Light, Redwoods Group Foundation, Monique Burr Foundation for Children and American Camp Association, have made materials available to help adults learn about preventing child sexual abuse.

For information, go online to ymca.org/fivedaysofaction