90% of Child Sexual Abuse Is By Someone They Know and Trust

Cara Hansen Latest News, News Releases August 18, 2026August 18, 2026Center for Child Counseling, child abuse prevention, child abuse prevention education, child safety, child safety education, child sexual abuse, child sexual abuse awareness, child sexual abuse by someone they know, child sexual abuse prevention programs, child sexual abuse prevention training, child sexual abuse resources, child sexual abuse statistics, prevent child sexual abuse, preventing child sexual abuse, protect children from sexual abuse, sexual abuse prevention, sexual abuse prevention for educators, sexual abuse prevention for parents, signs of child sexual abuse

Op-Ed
August 18, 2026
By: Renée Layman, CEO of Center for Child Counseling

Recent headlines have shaken our community, reminding us that child sexual abuse is not a distant threat—it happens in every neighborhood, every community, and far too often, at the hands of those we know and trust. Family members, friends, neighbors, teachers, coaches, faith leaders, and even public officials have been charged with these devastating crimes. Awareness alone is not enough: we must act to prevent abuse before it happens.

The statistics are staggering. Every nine minutes, a child is a victim of sexual abuse or assault. Of those children, 90% are abused by someone they know and trust. One in four girls and one in thirteen boys will report being sexually abused by the age of 18. The long-term effects can be profound—depression, eating disorders, self-blame, self-destructive behaviors, intergenerational cycles of abuse, learning difficulties, and substance use. But as devastating as this public health crisis is, we know that prevention is possible.

We must adopt a public health approach to make a real difference. This means building systems of awareness, education, prevention, support, and treatment in every community. Prevention must start early and continue through every stage of childhood and adolescence. Trauma-informed training for teachers, parents, and caregivers; comprehensive health education for students; access to mental health professionals; and safe, supportive environments are all essential.

At the Center for Child Counseling, we are committed to this model. Through our beKidSafe.org platform, parents, educators, and all adults who care for children can access practical, research-based training and resources to prevent abuse, build communication skills, and foster resilience. Our goal is to empower every adult to recognize risk, respond appropriately, and create safe spaces for children to thrive.

Protecting children cannot be left to families alone. It is a community responsibility. Feeling safe and protected is vital to every child’s development. Whether you are a community leader, educator, parent, or anyone who interacts with children, I urge you to join us in changing the trajectory of this crisis. Ask what your schools and organizations are doing to keep children safe. Advocate for training, resources, and policies that put children’s well-being first. Together, we can build a community where every child is safe from abuse.

For more information, resources, or to get involved, visit centerforchildcounseling.org or beKidSafe.org. Need personalized support? Connect with our team (centerforchildcounseling.org/contact-us)—we’re here to help.

About Center for Child Counseling
Center for Child Counseling has been building the foundation for playful, healthful, and hopeful living for children and families in Palm Beach County since 1999. Its services focus on preventing and healing the effects of adverse experiences and toxic stress on children, promoting resiliency and healthy family, school, and community relationships. www.centerforchildcounseling.org Twitter: @ChildCounselPBC Facebook: @CenterforChildCounseling Instagram: @childcounselpbc

CFCC Holds New Executive Office Open House in Palm Beach Gardens

Cara Hansen Latest News, News Releases June 26, 2026June 26, 2026Center for Child Counseling, Circle of Giving, executive office, Open House

NEWS RELEASE
June 26, 2026
For immediate release
Media contact: Cara Scarola Hansen
Center for Child Counseling Public Relations Counsel
cara@yourmissionmarketing.com

Center for Child Counseling (CFCC) recently welcomed its Circle of Giving members and community partners to an Open House at its new executive office for a night of celebration and connection.

Together, with about 50 guests, CEO Renée Layman and her staff celebrated the agency’s new space and its impact made possible by the mission and partnerships that power it every day: a shared commitment to supporting children and families affected by trauma and adverse childhood experiences (ACEs). The main office is now located at 4400 PGA Boulevard, Suite 400C, Palm Beach Gardens.

The Circle of Giving is a relationship-first philanthropic community. The Center brings together dedicated individuals who are ready to make a lasting difference for children and families across Palm Beach County. Its members are part of a movement that builds real relationships with CFCC’s leadership, see impact firsthand, and grow advocates for children’s mental health.

CFCC launched its Circle of Giving, chaired by Melissa Haley, in November 2023 to drive action and change. The Circle unites philanthropists, advocates, community leaders, and partners dedicated to advancing children’s mental health through meaningful investment and strategic action.

“Together, we turn awareness into tangible change and create lasting pathways to healing for children in our community. We aim to take action and drive advocacy toward a brighter future by forming a circle of love, protection, and healing around our community’s children,” stated Layman.

According to Haley, “The Circle is more than just giving. It’s the relationships, the learning, and the opportunity to see the work up close.”

With these goals in mind for 2026, Haley and the CFCC leadership team have focused on creating a more intentional experience for its members. In addition to giving tours of the new office space, CFCC premiered two new videos which feature the importance of their community partnerships and how they use data to inform their programs and services. Guests learned about how the Center partners with schools and organizations in the community to better serve children and families. CFCC brings its services directly on-site to community partners, such as Rohi’s Readery and Opportunity Early Childhood Education & Family Center, to increase immediate access to care. The Center is also using a technology-driven approach to meet the adults and caregivers where they are. By using a robust Data Dashboard that collects real-time data, CFCC is able to intervene early in a child’s life to disrupt intergenerational cycles of abuse and trauma.

“We are bringing support directly to children and families who might not otherwise receive it. We are working to build a system that responds to children in a different way,” added Layman.

The next Circle of Giving event will take place on September 9, 2026, at CFCC’s Family Visitation Center. Guests will walk through the newly renovated center and witness firsthand the compassionate systems that surround vulnerable children and families.

For more information on the Center for Child Counseling and to be a part of a community that is committed to children and families, and to learning and growing together, visit centerforchildcounseling.org/givingcircle.