1 in 10 kids will be sexually assaulted before their 18th birthday. This year alone, there will be 400,000 babies born that will be victims of sexual abuse unless we do something to stop it. As Miss Vacaville 2013 I have partnered with Darkness to Light: End Child Sexual Abuse, it is my platform and who I fight for. I am a survivor of sexual abuse, and come to this city council urging them to take up this mandate for Vacaville, and urge organizations involved with youth to become a Partner in Prevention. Organizations that partner with D2L and train their staff and volunteers create an environment that better protects children. Perpetrators are drawn to places where they can have easy access to children. An organization that emphasizes prevention through training and appropriate policies is an unwelcoming place for a perpetrator. Training increases staff and volunteer awareness and teaches them to recognize the signs that an opportunity exists for abuse to occur, and the signs that abuse has occurred. It is also critical that staff and volunteers know how to react if they recognize the signs or if a child discloses abuse. The Partner in Prevention Program Includes: Making prevention a priority by using Stewards of Children to train staff and volunteers who interact with youth Conducting criminal background checks on staff and volunteers who work with youth Implementing policy that limits opportunities for one adult to be alone with one child This is an incredible step, not just for this city, but for our children's future! So join me and become a Partner in Prevention! Hazel Payne Miss Vacaville 2013