Imagine a teen scrolling through social media, chatting with someone they think they can trust. One wrong click, one misleading message, one subtle pressure—and their world can change forever.
Child sexual abuse is far more common than most people realize. In the U.S., at least 1 in 10 children will experience sexual abuse before age 18—and because so many never disclose, the real number is likely even higher.
More than 90% of the time, the harm comes from someone the child knows and trusts. And today, the risks are evolving faster than ever.
Kids are navigating new digital spaces, increasingly sophisticated grooming behaviors, and environments where adults are stretched thin. One in five teens reports being sexually extorted—and 81% of those cases happen online.
The threats children face today look entirely different from even a few years ago. As risks change, our prevention efforts must change just as quickly.
Prevention Can’t Wait
A child’s safety is an adult’s responsibility. Prevention isn’t something a child can do on their own—it’s up to us to stay informed, recognize the signs, and act the moment something feels off. That’s where Darkness to Light comes in.
For 25 years, Darkness to Light has been a leader in preventing child sexual abuse. Through our proven, evidence-informed training programs, we educate adults—parents, caregivers, teachers, coaches, and community members—on how to recognize, respond to, and prevent abuse. By empowering adults with knowledge, we create safer environments for children everywhere.
Take Action to Protect Children
During our 25 Days of Impact campaign, supporters like you have already helped us make a real difference—but there’s still more work to do. To keep up with the ever-changing risks children face today, we need your help.
Will you give today to help protect children and power prevention?
👉 Donate Now — Protect Children
Every gift moves us closer to a world where all children grow up safe, supported, and believed. Thank you for being part of a community that shows up when it matters most.
