We’re pioneers in the field of child protection, devoted to keeping children safe from violence and abuse. Far too many children have experienced trauma that may cause them to act out, withdraw, or have difficulty paying attention—impeding their ability to learn and thrive. Advancing research- and evidence-based practices designed to protect children from violence and abuse is a priority for our organization. By training teachers, parents, and other adults to recognize, respond to, and report child abuse and violence as well as teaching children to recognize and report abuse when it occurs, we can make a difference in the lives of children. We advocate for policies and legislation that protect children through abuse prevention, bullying prevention, and expanded SEL funding. We work to integrate research-based approaches that build a safe and nurturing environment where children can thrive.

Safeguarding Children Through Community

Our long-standing history of protecting children from sexual abuse is the origin and soul of our organization. Since our earliest days protecting sexual and gender violence-affected children, we are driven to build communities that wrap children in safety and support. Child abuse prevention takes vigilance on everyone’s part, and our comprehensive Child Protection Unit blends prevention and intervention research to provide educators, families, and children with training and solutions for working together to keep kids safe from abuse.

The Child Protection Unit lays the groundwork to meet the needs of children who have experienced or are at risk for experiencing maltreatment in an educational setting. Implementation of this unit can help schools strengthen the layers of protection, safety, and support for all students