Child Abuse Prevention & Youth Protection Policy

Creating a Safe, Supportive Environment for All Youth

 

Our Commitment

At the Door County YMCA, we believe that all children deserve to thrive in safe, nurturing environments. Whether in Summer Camp, School-age care, Aquatics, Sports, or Teen programs, we take our responsibility seriously to protect every child in our care.

We uphold a zero-tolerance policy for child abuse and take all concerns seriously, with swift and transparent action.

 

Our Youth Protection Standards

Zero Tolerance for Abuse
Anybody accused of abuse will be immediately removed from the facility and program pending investigation. If confirmed, they are permanently banned from YMCA facilities and programs.

No One-on-One Interactions
Staff may not be alone with a child in private. Staff must be visible to others at all times.  Security cameras are in use in many areas to support safety and accountability.

Mandated Reporting
All staff are mandated reporters under Wisconsin law and are required to report any suspected abuse or neglect.

Prohibited Behaviors Among Youth
Inappropriate sexual behavior between children or directed at staff is not tolerated and will be addressed through official reporting protocols.

 

What We Do to Protect Children

1. Screening
✔ Background checks for all staff/volunteers
✔ Three character references are required prior to employment
✔ Biannual re-checks or if reentering a program
✔ All staff and guests screened through the Raptor System (Sex Offender Registry integrated)

2. Training
✔ Annual abuse prevention training for all staff
✔ Covers signs, response, boundaries, and reporting

3. Reporting
✔ All allegations are taken seriously and reported promptly
✔ We cooperate fully with law enforcement and child protective services

4. Policy & Auditing
✔ Staff report all questionable behavior
✔ Internal protocol ensure high safety standards
✔ Use of Praesidium’s risk management tool

 

Education & Empowerment

We’re providing age-appropriate talking sheets to youth participants to help them learn about boundaries, speak up, and stay safe.

We participate each year in Five Days of Action, a week-long campaign led by YMCA Champions for Child Protection and YMCA of the USA. This initiative raises awareness and empowers adults to prevent child sexual abuse by promoting the Know. See. Respond. framework—helping individuals recognize warning signs, create safe environments, and take meaningful action to protect children.  

Look for our Know. See. Respond. symbols in YMCA spaces:

  • KNOW how abuse happens
  • SEE the warning signs
  • RESPOND quickly

Please talk regularly with your children about their YMCA experiences. Ask about instructors and friendships. Together, we create a culture of prevention.

 

 

📞 Who to Contact

If you suspect abuse or have concerns, report immediately to:

  • Tonya Felhofer, YMCA CEO – 920.743.4949
  • Sherri Dantoin, Associate Executive – 920.743.4949
  • Door County Health & Human Services – 920.746.9400
  • WI Child Protective Services – 414.220.7233
  • Door County Sheriff – 920.746.7155 (M–F) or 920.746.2400 (after hours)
  • Statewide Abuse Hotline – 1.800.96.ABUSE

 

Thank You

Thank you for trusting the Door County YMCA with your children. With your partnership, we’re building a community where every child feels safe, valued, and empowered to thrive.