Given the recent Penn State sexual abuse scandal, there has been a lot of media coverage on the topic. However, there has been little if any dialogue related to educational resources on the subject or what we as individuals can do to help prevent sexual abuse and all forms of abuse.

Here are some resources that you can utilize to be an advocate for and educate others related to sexual abuse and domestic abuse prevention. Each link provides direct access to various documents and educational materials that you can print and use:

1. Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network (RAINN) – The link here lists multiple ways in which you or your group can get involved with RAINN. Examples include volunteering, being part of the “E-crew” (e.g., using social media, Email outreach, blogging, etc.), and improving public policy.

Twitter: @rainn01

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2. National Online Resource Center on Violence Against Women –  This link goes to a “Training Resources”site in which there are free webinars, online toolkits, videos, exhibits, games, and curricula. Each of these materials can assist in raising awareness, increasing capacity, or enhancing one’s knowledge-base related to domestic abuse, sexual assault, and other abuse-related topics.

Twitter: @VAWnet

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3. Stop It Now! – Free child sexual abuse prevention resources, including “Prevention” and “Warning Signs” tip sheets that you can download, print, and distribute. Other free downloadable resources, include guidebooks titled “Prevent Child Sexual Abuse: Facts About Abuse and How to Prevent It” and “Let’s Talk: Adults Talking to Adults About Child Sexual Abuse.”

Twitter: @StopItNow

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4. National Domestic Violence Hotline – Link to download resource center containing awareness materials. The National Domestic Violence Hotline creates access by providing 24-hour support through advocacy, safety planning, resources and hope to everyone affected by domestic violence.

Twitter: @NDVH

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5. MedlinePlus (A service of the U.S. National Library of Medicine / National Institutes of Health) – Produced by the National Library of Medicine, MedlinePlus publishes information about diseases, conditions, and wellness issues. This particular link connects to child sexual abuse information, including links to associated third-party resources and research.

Twitter: @medlineplus

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