On September 14, Childhelp will officially launch Connect to Protect Kids (CTPK) nationwide — a groundbreaking adult-focused prevention program designed to empower communities to prevent child sexual abuse, exploitation, trafficking, and other forms of interpersonal, peer and online harm.
First announced by Childhelp in April, CTPK was developed through a collaborative partnership of four organizations committed to creating a stronger, more effective approach to community prevention: the Center for Violence Prevention Research, Georgia Center for Child Advocacy, Illuminate Colorado and Protect Our Children.
Following a pilot in seven states — Arizona, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, Oregon and Tennessee — CTPK is now ready to expand nationwide.
A New Approach to Prevention
For too long, prevention efforts have often focused on either children or adults. Childhelp believes meaningful prevention requires both, and a community-wide approach that brings everyone to the table.
That’s why CTPK is being aligned with Childhelp’s existing youth-focused program, Childhelp Speak Up Be Safe (CH SUBS), creating an integrated prevention system that equips both adults and young people with the knowledge and tools they need to help prevent harm.
CTPK takes prevention beyond individual awareness by helping communities identify their unique needs, understand the factors that contribute to harm, and develop practical strategies for creating safer environments for children.
Prevention Built for Communities
CTPK is designed to be adaptable, recognizing that every community has different strengths, challenges, and resources. Through training and resources, adults can learn how to recognize risks, strengthen protective factors, and take meaningful action to prevent child abuse and exploitation.
Together, CTPK and Childhelp Speak Up Be Safe give schools, organizations, and communities access to:
- High-quality prevention education for both adults and children
- Adaptable training and resources that reflect the needs of diverse communities
- An integrated approach to prevention that connects what adults and young people are learning
- Practical strategies communities can use to strengthen protective environments for children
“We’re excited to help set a new standard for prevention education,” says Childhelp Vice President of Growth and Prevention Dr. Stacy Vaughan. “By providing adaptable programs and resources, we’re not just addressing the needs of today. We’re building stronger, safer communities for future generations. Together, in partnership with organizations and communities across the country, we will show that prevention is possible.”
To learn more about Connect to Protect Kids and how your organization can get involved, visit Childhelp’s prevention page.
