Prevent Abuse

Child abuse prevention requires a multi-layer approach. The YMCA works with Praesidium, a national abuse-prevention organization, to create policies, procedures, and trainings that keep children in our facility and programs safe.

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Child Safety at the YMCA

YMCA policies create boundaries and help monitor behavior. Staff are trained to recognize and report red flags, rule violations, and change in children's behaviors. Additionally all staff are mandatory reporters and required to report signs of suspected abuse.

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Family Resources

Children depend on the adults in their life to guide and protect them. Praesidium has compiled various resources for families to learn how talk to youth about abuse, protect youth, and respond to allegations of child abuse.

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Report a Concern or Compliant:

If you have concerns, complaints, or need to report suspicious behavior, please use the following resources:

Confidential Text Line: Text 406-201-9372 with any concerns or complaints about Y program safety. Texts are confidential. You may also use the form below to share anonymous concerns or complaints. You have the option to provide your contact information to allow us to learn more, investigate, and report back. Communication will remain confidential.

YMCA Child Abuse Prevention Helpline: For guidance and reporting inappropriate behavior, call the dedicated YMCA Child Abuse Prevention Hotline at 1-855-347-0751. This is a nationwide hotline monitored by Praesidium.

Montana Child Abuse & Neglect Hotline (24/7): If you suspect that a child is being abused either in or outside of YMCA programs, call the DPHHS hotline at 1-800-820-KIDS (5437). Communication is confidential unless a district judge orders otherwise.

Anonymous Written Tips: Use the drop-off mailbox located at the front of the main YMCA facility at 3000 S. Russell St. to leave an anonymous written tip.

Senior Leadership: Contact Missoula YMCA senior leadership by emailing ymca@ymcamissoula.org.

Anonymous Online Tips: Use the form below to submit an anonymous compliant or concern. Responses are monitored by YMCA leadership.

 

After reporting a concern, you can expect a follow-up withing 48 hours (if requested); a thorough investigation of concerns/allegations; privacy and discretion. YMCA staff are state-mandated reporters and required to follow all Mandated Reporting requirements.

Child Safety at the YMCA

Here at the YMCA, we're committed to providing safe, welcoming environments for the children and families in our programs. All YMCA staff are trained in child abuse prevention and are mandatory state reporters. We work closely with Praesidium, a national abuse prevention agencies, to ensure our policies and procedures meet and exceed best practice. Click the PDFs below for information on the Missoula Y's work around child abuse prevention and for information on how to keep your child safe outside of the Y.

 

Child Safety at the YMCA  Child Safety Outside of the YMCA  Tools to Keep Youth Safe

 

Report a Concern (Anonymous Form) 

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