Mission Statement
Greater High Point YMCA Mission Statement:
To put Christian principles into practice through programs that build a healthy spirit, mind, and body for all. -
- For Youth Development
- For Healthy Living
- For Solcial Responsibility
Darkness to Light MIssion Statement:
To Empower People to Prevent Child Sexual Abuse
Our programs raise awareness of the prevalence and consequences of child sexual abuse by educating adults about the steps they can take to prevent, recognize and react responsibly to the reality of child sexual abuse.
Description
The Greater High Point YMCA, has adopted the Darkness to Light's Stewards of Children Program into their association to better protect the children in their communities. Many YMCA's nationally have done the same. They have taken the Proactive approach rather than the Reactive approach. Given the recent uncovered sexual abuse within Organizations such as; The Catholic Church, The Boy Scouts of America, and Penn State, it only makes common sense that a staple in the community such as the YMCA would lead the coalition in their community to better protect children. I am extremely proud to be part of such a caring organization. Child Abuse.., Child Sexual Abuse has reached Epidemic Status, and the Silenced Victims deserve their Voices.
The program Empowers Adults to Recognize symptoms in victims. Recognize Red Flags, in perpetrators, and reduce situational risks, more importantly trains adults to react responsibly, and to support each other when there is suspicion or disclosure of abuse has occured.
The 5 Steps to Protecting Our Children
- Learn the Facts
- Minimize Opportunity
- Talk About It
- Recognize the Signs
- React Responsibly
Learn the Facts of Child Sexual Abuse
Realities, Not Trust, Should Influence Your Decisions Regarding Children
"We live in a beautiful, safe neighborhood. None of these children could be victims of sexual abuse, right?"
It is highly likely that you know a child who has been or is being abused.
Experts estimate that 1 in 10 children are sexually abused before their 18th birthday. This means that in any classroom or neighborhood full of children, there are children who are silently bearing the burden of sexual abuse.
- 1 in 5 children are sexually solicited while on the Internet.31
- Youth are 2.5 times more likely to be raped than adults.32, 34
- About 35% of victims are 11 years old or younger.34, 35
- 9% of 10 to 17-year-oldsreceive a sexual request while on the Internet.21
- 30 to 40% of children are abused by family members.33, 34
- As many as 60% are abused by people the family trusts.33, 34
- Nearly 40% are abused by older or larger children.34, 36
- Over 90% of children who are commercially sexually exploited have a history of child sexual abuse.37
- About 75% of child pornography victims are living at home when they are photographed. Parents are often responsible.37
Sexually abused children who keep it a secret or who "tell" and are not believed are at greater risk than the general population for psychological, emotional, social, and physical problems, often lasting into adulthood. It is also likely that you know an abuser. The greatest risk to children doesn't come from strangers but from friends and family.
People who abuse children look and act just like every one else. In fact, they often go out of their way to appear trustworthy, seeking out settings where they can gain easy access to children, such as sports leagues, faith centers, clubs, and schools.
