This April, we recognize National Child Abuse Prevention Month, an initiative rooted in communities working together to serve children and their families in meaningful, impactful ways that provide families what they need to thrive, even throughout adversity.

Last year, an estimated 618,000 children were found to be victims of child abuse or neglect nationwide. 

The YMCA of Greater Oklahoma City recognizes that our actions play a role in addressing the root causes of child abuse and neglect. In order to do our part, staff are trained throughout the year to help them identify, report and prevent child abuse. We continually review our policies, practices and procedures surrounding the ways we care for the children in our care.

From our staff to our volunteers, we enforce a Code of Ethics that is written to ensure our spaces remain physically and emotionally safe for each child in our programs. Additionally, we have policies across the Y designed with safety in mind. We also require reporting of any allegations or suspicions of abuse to law enforcement.

Caring for and nurturing children is the heart of what we do here at the Y. We believe that all children deserve to grow up in safe, supportive environments. We are honored to create these spaces for all children in our community, but the work does not stop at the doors of our facilities. Prevention efforts are much more effective when they reach a wider audience.

We hope you’ll join us April 18-22 for Five Days of Action, a nationwide effort to raise awareness of how we can protect children from abuse. Visit your Y location during this time to learn more.