Child Abuse Prevention Policy

Child Protection

CHILD PROTECTION GUIDE FOR PARENTS

We know that you place trust in the y to help your child develop and thrive. We place great value on creating the most child-safe environment possible. We believe when you are well informed about safety protocols, it greatly assists our responsibility of remaining vigilant and aware of all individuals who potentially interact with children. The Ocean Community YMCA has a zero-tolerance policy for abuse (including sexual abuse) or mistreatment of consumers by staff, volunteers, and other consumers.  Conduct that rises to the level of abuse by any of the above parties will result in intervention and/or disciplinary action, up to an including dismissal from employment (staff) or program (consumer).  You are strongly encouraged to immediately report any deviation from these procedures.

The Ocean Community YMCA has over 300 staff and volunteers working with youth in the many programs that we offer. To keep children safe, we follow a comprehensive screening process for potential employees and volunteers that includes a detailed application and interview process, reference checks, criminal background checks, and training.

Our employees and volunteer complete and extensive child abuse prevention training program. Supervisors and managers complete additional training to further promote a child-safe environment. Additionally, all staff and volunteers are mandated to report any suspected child abuse.

YMCA CHILD SAFETY PROCEDURES

HOW CAN YOU HELP PREVENT CHILD ABUSE?

  • Talk to your child about his or her experiences in Y programs, school, sports, and other activities.
  • Drop in on your child’s programs.
  • Trust your instincts. Don’t wait to tell us if something seems strange, SPEAK UP!
  • Every once in a while, ask your child these questions:
    • Is anyone scaring or threatening you?
    • Is anyone asking you to keep secrets?
    • Has anyone said anything to your that made you feel bad?
    • Is anyone touching you in a way that you don’t like?
  • Encourage your child to tell you or another trusted adult if anything happens to him or her.
  • Watch for warning signs of abuse:
    • Unexplainable bruising or other physical markings
    • Disturbed sleeping or eating patterns
    • Abrupt changes in heavier such as anxiety, clinging, aggressiveness, withdrawal, or depression
    • Fear of a certain person or place
    • Discomfort with physical contact
    • A child who abuses other children.
  • Listen and watch for signs of your child receiving special attention that other children or teens are not receiving, including favors, treats, gifts, rides, increasing affection or time alone, particularly outside the activities of school, childcare, or other activities.

More Resources For You To Use

Resource assisting younger kids in understanding consent and setting boundaries

Targets teen dating and healthy relationships

Targets teen dating and healthy relationships

Online safety

Contact Us For More Information

Please Contact Us

If you have any questions or concerns regarding a YMCA staff person or program, please contact us.

Karen Allen, Executive Branch Director Arcadia Branch, kallen@oceancommunityymca.org, 401-539-2306

Michael Squatrito, Vice President of Operations msquatrito@oceancommunityymca.org, 401-596-2894

Yolla El Khoury, Executive Branch Director Naik Family Branch, yelkhoury@oceancommunityymca.org, 860-536-3575.

If you suspect abuse, please contact us immediately at 401-596-2894. If you are not comfortable sharing this information directly with us, please make a report to the appropriate agencies: Connecticut DCF Careline: 1-800-842-2288 or Rhode Island DCYF: 1-800-7424453. If you feel your child is in immediate danger or has been physically injured, please contact local law enforcement and seek medical attention.

You can also send a confidential report to:

Sheila Litty, Chief Operations Officer
95 High Street
Westerly, RI  02891

OR

The Praesidium Helpline:   855-347-0751

(for reporting suspicious or inappropriate behaviors OR for more resources regarding youth sexual abuse prevention)

Our Doors Are Always Open

With a commitment to nurturing the potential of kids, promoting healthy living and fostering a sense of social responsibility, the Y ensures that everyone has access to the essentials needed to learn, grow and thrive.