WEST CHESTER, PA — The YMCA of Greater Brandywine (YGBW) concluded its participation in the Five Days of Action® campaign this week, a national initiative aimed at preventing child sexual abuse during Child Abuse Prevention Month. Running from April 21-25, the campaign was designed to educate parents, caregivers, and community members about recognizing, preventing, and responding to potential abuse.
“All adults in the community have a responsibility to keep children safe,” said Claudia Aust, YGBW’s Senior Association Director of Licensed Childcare and BASE. “By taking part in this important campaign, adults will learn common abuse prevention practices—including how to recognize and respond to signs of abuse. It can be an uncomfortable topic—but it is one that we must discuss.”
The Five Days of Action® initiative emphasizes three critical steps to safeguard children and teens from abuse.
- Know how to evaluate programs for child safety by asking key questions regarding abuse prevention policies.
- See the signs of grooming behaviors used by predators and learn how to identify and act on warning signals.
- Respond with proactive measures, such as using educational tools like the Trusted Triangle and Safety NETwork, which help families teach safety at home effectively.
The campaign also reminds families of the importance of vigilance as summer approaches, with many children attending camps, sports, and other community activities. YGBW encourages all community members—not just YMCA staff—to take an active role in ensuring the safety of children during these events.
By promoting awareness and practical tools, YGBW is fostering a safer environment for children throughout the community. To continue the momentum of the Five Days of Action® campaign, the YMCA plans to expand its focus on safety education in the months ahead, reaffirming its commitment to protecting children and empowering the public to do the same.
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