Championing Child Abuse Prevention and Digital Safety

LIVINGSTON, NJ – The Metropolitan YMCA of the Oranges, a child abuse prevention leader and leading non-profit organization serving Bergen, Essex, and Sussex counties, New Jersey, is joining with Ys across the country for Five Days of Action® running April 13-17, 2026. This weeklong campaign is designed to raise awareness and inspire action to protect children from abuse, with a special focus this year on digital safety for kids.

Throughout the week, the Y will share resources and provide education to help parents and caregivers navigate the ever-changing digital world. The YMCA believes that every adult has a role to play in protecting children, online and off.

“Technology is an amazing tool for learning and connection, but it also presents new risks,” said Richard K. Gorab, President and CEO of the Metropolitan YMCA of the Oranges. “By working together and staying informed, we can create safer digital spaces for all children.”

In 2026, the Y has partnered with Praesidium, National Center for Exploited and Missing Children, Lauren’s Kids, and National Children’s Alliance to offer additional resources for parents and caregivers.

According to national estimates, one in 10 children are sexually abused before their 18th birthday, making community awareness campaigns like Five Days of Action® critical to protecting kids in New Jersey and nationwide.

The Metro YMCA of the Oranges is one of a select group of YMCAs globally to achieve full accreditation from Praesidium Inc., a leader in abuse risk management. This prestigious recognition demonstrates Metro Y's commitment to meeting the highest industry standards in abuse prevention.

Learn More and Get Involved

Adults can learn how to recognize red flags, start open conversations with children, access digital safety resources, and take the official pledge to protect kids at fivedaysofaction.org.

To learn what the Y is doing to protect children from sexual abuse, visit www.metroymcas.org/main/child-abuse-prevention.

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About the Y

Established in 1885, the Metropolitan YMCA of the Oranges invests in its diverse communities to promote wellness, safety and quality of life for children, adults and seniors. Its six branches in East Orange, Livingston, Maplewood, New Milford, Hardyston, and Stillwater are committed to nurturing the potential of kids, promoting healthy living and fostering a sense of social responsibility through an array of programs. Some 35,000 people belong to the Metro Y, which awards more than $2 million annually in direct and indirect financial assistance.