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Child sexual abuse doesn’t begin in silence — but it thrives in it. Darkness to Light was founded to break that silence, not just after abuse occurs, but before it ever begins.
This nonprofit organization is dedicated to preventing child sexual abuse by educating and empowering adults. Their flagship training, Stewards of Children®, has been delivered to more than 2 million adults worldwide — from parents and teachers to coaches, youth group leaders, and beyond.
Their mission is rooted in a powerful truth: Adults are responsible for the safety of children. Not the other way around.
Prevention Starts With Us
While many organizations focus on survivor recovery or policy reform, Darkness to Light aims upstream — teaching adults how to identify grooming behavior, intervene before abuse happens, and respond appropriately if a child discloses abuse.
Their trainings are research-based, survivor-informed, and designed to be practical for real-world use. Topics include:
- Understanding the facts and myths about child sexual abuse
- Recognizing signs of abuse and grooming
- Creating safer environments in youth-serving organizations
- Responding appropriately to disclosures
- Mandated reporting laws and responsibilities
The idea is simple but transformative: when more adults are trained, more children are protected.
A Global Movement for Local Impact
Darkness to Light works with communities across the U.S. and in over 100 countries, partnering with child advocacy centers, schools, faith-based institutions, and government agencies. Their programs are tailored for accessibility — with online training, live workshops, and customizable organizational packages.
They also provide culturally responsive materials to reach BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, and rural communities, ensuring no child is left behind in prevention.
Centering Survivors in Prevention
Though the primary audience is adults responsible for child safety, survivors are at the heart of this movement. Many trainers and staff are survivors themselves, and their stories shape the content, delivery, and tone of Darkness to Light’s materials.
The message is clear: child sexual abuse is preventable — and survivors are leading the way.
To explore Darkness to Light’s training programs, toolkits, or to bring prevention education to your community, visit https://www.d2l.org