The Young Men’s Christian Association (YMCA) was founded in Christian principles that strive to build young people of character. Unfortunately, we also know there have been many instances of sexual abuse perpetrated by employees and volunteers at the YMCA.
At Walkup, Melodia, Kelly & Schoenberger, our dedicated and experienced team will always work to secure justice for those who have been sexually abused as children. If you or a loved one have been sexually abused while participating in California YMCA events, we are ready to help investigate what happened and secure the compensation you deserve. Contact our California sexual abuse attorneys today for a free consultation of your case: (415) 981-7210.
Where Does YMCA Sexual Abuse Occur?
There are more than 2,700 YMCAs in the United States, with many here in California. This organization serves millions of youth throughout California each year. Parents and guardians trust YMCA staff and volunteers with their children. Unfortunately, the activities sponsored by the YMCA offer ample opportunity for sexual predators to prey on children. Children can suffer from sexual abuse during any of the events at a YMCA, including:
- Youth mentoring
- Worship events
- Bible studies
- Tutoring
- After school care
- Daycare
- And more
Sexual abuse within YMCA organizations has been perpetrated by employees and volunteers, including counselors, coaches, mentors, and support staff. Parents and guardians should look for any signs that their child is being sexually abused, including a hesitancy to return to the YMCA, unease around certain staff members, changes in overall behavior, as well as physical signs like bruising or soreness around the genital area.
AB 218 Give Victims More Time
AB 218 took effect in California on Jan. 1, 2020, and allows for victims of childhood sexual assault to file a lawsuit until they turn 40 years of age or up to five years after they discover the adult psychological injury caused by the abuse. This is a significant increase over previous time restraints, and the law also allows for a three-year window for those previously barred from filing lawsuits because of time restrictions to do so.
Victims of childhood sexual abuse often do not report what happened to them until later in life, and AB 218 gives them the opportunity to have a voice and seek justice.
Why Do You Need an Attorney for This Case?
The YMCA is a well-funded organization that will fight allegations of sexual abuse and sexual abuse cover-ups. Your attorney will level the playing field with the resources and experience necessary to take on the YMCA. They will:
- Conduct a thorough investigation into your allegations of childhood sexual abuse.
- Handle all negotiations with the YMCA and their legal team to secure the compensation that is fair on your behalf.
- Be fully prepared to take your case to trial if necessary to secure the compensation you deserve.
We Are Ready to Help With Your Case
If you or somebody you care about has been sexually abused in a California YMCA, contact an attorney today. The team at Walkup, Melodia, Kelly & Schoenberger will thoroughly investigate your case. We understand the long-lasting impacts that this kind of abuse has and we want to ensure you secure the compensation you deserve, including compensation for pain and suffering, any necessary counseling, as well as punitive damages against the perpetrators of the abuse. Contact us today for a free evaluation of your case with a California YMCA sexual abuse attorney.