Summer camp and afterschool programs are meant to be a place for kids to play, grow, and build relationships. As parents and caregivers, we trust that these programs provide quality oversight with safe adults, and when that trust is violated, it can cause lasting damage to the individual, family, and community as a whole. If the YMCA has subjected you to abuse during your time at a camp or affiliated event, you may be eligible for compensation. Our California child sexual abuse lawyer with The Senators Firm can speak with you about your options.
Sexual Abuse in California YMCAs
Unfortunately, summer camp and after school camps can be the ideal environments for child predators. With the nature of the services and programs the YMCA provides, they are no exception. Allegations of sexual abuse from YMCA counselors and affiliates have been in the media for decades now, resulting in millions of dollars in lawsuit settlements. After a number of successful settlements and lawsuits, the YMCA has made adjustments to its child protection policies as well as service provision to over half a million families nationwide.
How Can a YMCA Sexual Abuse Lawyer Help?
Facing the legal process following child sexual abuse (CSA) can be an extremely upsetting experience for many survivors. When you have an attorney to represent your interests, they can handle much of the process for you. This includes investigating what happened and collecting evidence to support your case. Additionally, working with an attorney prevents other parties from contacting you, providing a buffer from additional possible triggers during much of the process. While we will need your involvement to a degree, much of what is required will go through your attorney, and when you do have to engage, your attorney will be with you. If you have concerns for your safety, we can help you apply for a protective order.
YMCA Sexual Abuse Injuries
The consequences of sexual abuse, particularly Child Sexual Abuse, can be lifelong and devastating. When a child’s body and trust are violated by someone they should be able to trust, it can cause lingering distrust in themselves, negative thoughts about themselves and their worth, and other lasting effects such as:
- Behavioral problems
- Urinary complications
- Pelvic floor pain or complications
- Relationship and interpersonal conflict
- Self-esteem
- Higher rate of eating disorder
In addition to the emotional and physical effects, many survivors may find themselves in situations that are more vulnerable to victimization due to a number of factors. Survivors of sexual abuse may also engage in more risky sexual behavior. Many of these problems may be lifelong, even with therapy.
Compensation Available in a YMCA Sexual Assault Case
The lasting consequences for the survivors of child sexual abuse can leave them with significant negative impacts on their lives, increased medical issues, and long-term therapeutic needs. Some of the damages your attorney may discuss with you can include:
- medical costs
- lost wages
- therapy costs
- loss of quality of life
- pain and suffering
We understand that money cannot replace what was taken in your abuse. However, when you pursue a civil lawsuit against the YMCA, you have a chance to share your story, hold your abuser accountable, and recover funds to help you recover and start a life that is your own. Regardless of your situation, it is vital to know that the only person accountable for the abuse you endured is your abuser. There is no part of your abuse that is your fault.