The YMCA of Pawtucket encourages adults and organizations in the community to play a vital role in making the YMCA a safer place for children. When adults know how abuse happens, see the warning signs, and respond quickly to prevent abuse, they foster a culture of child abuse prevention.
The 365 Days of Action is designed to raise awareness and inspire adults to take action to protect children from sexual abuse. Led by the YMCA Guardians for Child Protection, the goal is to engage communities, improve internal operations, and advance policy and environmental change to protect youth from sexual abuse. 365 Days of Action helps communities and parents/caregivers take it One Day at a Time and offers tips, tools, activities, and resources that are relevant to the current environment.
Questions, Concerns & Reporting
The YMCA of Pawtucket is committed to creating safe, supportive environments for every child in our care. We encourage open communication and welcome questions, concerns, suggestions, and feedback from youth participants and their parents or guardians.
If you have a concern related to a YMCA program, staff member, policy, or your child's experience, please contact Tara Foster, our Senior Vice President of Youth Development.
If your concern involves the Senior Vice President of Youth Development, or you believe the matter has not been fully addressed, you may contact Dan Reynolds, our Chief Operating Officer.
The YMCA is committed to addressing concerns promptly, fairly, and respectfully. Retaliation against anyone who raises a concern or asks a question in good faith is strictly prohibited.
State Licensing & Complaints
YMCA of Pawtucket childcare programs are licensed by the Rhode Island Department of Human Services Office of Child Care.
Parents or guardians who have questions about childcare licensing requirements or who wish to submit a complaint may contact:
Rhode Island Department of Human Services
Office of Child Care Licensing Unit
Phone: (401) 462-3009
Email: DHS.Childcarelicensing@dhs.ri.gov
The Office of Child Care is responsible for monitoring licensed programs and ensuring childcare centers comply with health and safety regulations established by the State of Rhode Island.
Speak Up When Something Doesn't Feel Right
Protecting children is a shared responsibility. We encourage children, parents, guardians, staff, volunteers, and community members to raise concerns whenever they see or experience behavior that may be inappropriate, unsafe, or inconsistent with YMCA policies.
You do not need to be certain that something is wrong before raising a concern. We would rather hear about a concern early so it can be appropriately reviewed and addressed.