The statistics are startling.  1 in 4 girls and 1 in 6 boys are sexually abused before their 18th birthday.  Children are victims in 70% of all reported sexual assaults.  In more than 90% of these cases, the abuser is someone the child knows and trusts.

But there's good news too.  The Merrimack Valley YMCA has partnered with Darkness to Light, a nationally acclaimed nonprofit, to bring its child sexual abuse prevention program, Stewards of Children, to the Merrimack Valley.

Stewards of Children is a two-and-a-half hour workshop designed to educate adults on how to recognize, prevent and react responsibly to the reality of child sexual abuse. It emphasizes child safety as an adult's responsibility. The trainings facilitate discussion about the incidence and consequence of abuse and provides information about child protection policies and mandates.

Trainings are open to the public and can be of specific interest to youth sports organizations, coaches, camp counselors, teachers, schools, faith centers, and other service organizations.  Continuing education credits for professionals in child care and social work can be obtained through this training. The training includes an interactive workbook and companion brochure.
 

Stewards of Children training dates:

Wednesday, February 8, 2012
6:00-8:30pm
Andover/North Andover YMCA
165 Haverhill Street, Andover

Monday, March 12, 2012
6:00-8:30pm
Lawrence YMCA
40 Lawrence Street, Lawrence

Wednesday, March 28, 2012*
6:00-8:30pm
Holy Family Hospital Auditorium
70 East Street, Methuen

Tuesday, April 10, 2012
6:00-8:30pm
Methuen YMCA
129 Haverhill Street, Methuen

Wednesday, May 9, 2012*
6:00-8:30pm
Holy Family Hospital Auditorium
70 East Street, Methuen

Space is limited - advance registration is required. 
Register by CLICKING HERE or call (978) 683-5266.

YMCA members: Free
Community: $10 person
*Trainings sponsored by Holy Family Hospital are free of charge.

For more information or to schedule a training at your business or organization, contact Anne Whalen at (978) 683-5266 or awhalen@mvymca.org

Saturday, February 11
5:30-7:30pm
Methuen YMCA
129 Haverhill Street, Methuen

Join us for a night of dancing and celebrating at our My Little Valentine Dance!  Families are welcome to come and enjoy a wonderful evening of music, food and fun.  Casual attire or wear your best dress or suit.  Register early for this event and make this Valentine's Day special!