Our Commitment
We partner with families, staff, and volunteers to ensure every child feels safe and supported. From training to policies, child protection is built into everything we do.
A Culture of Safety
Child safety starts with awareness, prevention, and accountability. Through clear policies and strong partnerships, we build a culture where every child is protected.
Safety at the Y
Youth in our programs participate in everything from child care and camps to aquatics, mentoring, and sports. Across the board, we follow the principles of youth development and prioritize safety by:
- Requiring detailed staff and volunteer applications
- Conducting interviews and reference checks
- Completing criminal background checks for all youth-facing roles
- Providing extensive child abuse prevention training
- Mandating staff and volunteers to report suspected abuse
- Offering an anonymous hotline to report policy concerns
Member Screening
To protect our community, all YMCA members are screened through a national sex offender registry upon joining and routinely thereafter. Any red flags are reviewed by trained staff, and appropriate action is taken if necessary.
Safe Policies and Boundaries
We design our programs and policies to limit one-on-one interactions between staff and youth unless they can be openly observed. Staff contact with children outside of YMCA programs is also limited to ensure transparency and accountability.
Reporting Child Abuse
If you suspect child abuse or neglect, please don’t wait to act. Below are resources and hotline numbers available 24/7:
- Kentucky Child Abuse Hotline: 877-597-2331
- Indiana Child Abuse Hotline: 800-800-5556
- National Child Abuse Hotline: 800-422-4453
Additional Resources
- Child Welfare Gateway
- National Center for Missing & Exploited Children | 1-800-843-5678
- National Parent Helpline | 1-855-4AParent (427-2763)
Explore Related Pages
Youth Development
Helping kids and teens grow into confident, capable leaders through connection, care, and opportunity.
Who We Are
Strengthening community through youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility.