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Darkness to Light

Stewards of Children®

 

Guided by the vision of a world where children can grow up happy, healthy, and safe. We believe that protecting children is an adult’s responsibility and that through education and training, adults will be empowered to act.
 
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Darkness to Light

Stewards of Children®

 

Guided by the vision of a world where children can grow up happy, healthy, and safe. We believe that protecting children is an adult’s responsibility and that through education and training, adults will be empowered to act.
 
Get Started Now

Howell Academics in collaboration with Stewards of Children® is committed to empowering adults to prevent child sexual abuse.

What is stewards of children?

Stewards of Children® is an evidence-informed, award-winning two and a half hour training that teaches adults to prevent, recognize, and react responsibly to child sexual abuse. Through interviews with a very diverse group of people with lived experience, experts, and treatment providers

Why Choose
Stewards of Children®?

Stewards of Children® is one of the only evidence-informed, adult-focused child sexual abuse prevention trainings in the United States proven to increase knowledge and change behavior

Who is this program for?

Stewards of Children® teaches adults practical actions they can take to reduce instances of child sexual abuse in their organizations, families, and communities
 
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Register For Our Training 

Delivered in a trauma-informed way by Paula Howell, our program features powerful videos paired with robust facilitated discussion. It teaches three foundational empowerment skills: making choices that protect children, taking risks to minimize danger to children, and supporting each other. Additionally, the program highlights The 5 Steps to Protecting Children™ and demonstrates how to apply them to better protect children from child sexual abuse.

 

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In-Person Training

Our in-person, group trainings are led by a Darkness to Light Authorized Facilitator  Paula Howell

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Online Training

The online portal is designed for individuals to access training at any time or place, at a pace of their choosing.

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NOTE: Numerous studies have shown that Darkness to Light’s prevention education works, and evidence-informed training can change child protective behaviours.

 
Download FREE: Protect Your Child: Sexual Abuse Statistics

Understand the best interest for your child

Gain access to an invaluable resource designed to let you discover the key factors that contribute to your child's well-being. Download our insightful resource and delve deep about the risks your child might face. Based on the latest data from the Rape, Abuse, and Incest National Network (RAINN), the nation's largest anti-sexual violence organization.

"Paula Howell, founder of Howell Academics, is one of the most passionate and dedicated educators I have had the pleasure of knowing..."

 

S. PERCIVAL

Message from Paula Howell

It’s time to exhale...

I understand.  As parents we have a responsibility to be our child advocate. I host training sessions because I believe that organizations can create safer environments for children through proper training and policies.  Organizations that prioritize prevention becomes unwelcoming to potential perpetrators.

By training staff and volunteers, we increase awareness and teach them to recognize both the signs of potential abuse and the signs that abuse has occurred. It's crucial for everyone involved to know how to respond if they notice these signs or if a child discloses abuse. As parents, we have a responsibility to advocate for our children and ensure their safety.

Beyond by bachelor of education, I hold certifications in Advanced Human Resource Management appointed by Cornell University and mediation from York University. These additional qualifications underscore my commitment to continuous professional development and my ability to blend strategic communication skills with a nuanced understanding of organizational dynamics.

Become AN advocate for change

"Paula has been the light at the end of the tunnel for all the hardships and trials I have experienced in life. Words cannot express the magnitude of my gratitude for the kindness and support she has extended towards me."

 

E. Franklin

Facilitator Workshops

Hosted by organizations in various cities each month.

An organization may choose to sponsor a Facilitator Workshop within their community or school as a way to train multiple employees and volunteers. The host organization may also choose to partner with other organizations to ensure adequate participation. Facilitator Workshops are a full day, typically 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM, and are taught by Paula Howell Darkness to Light Certified Instructor.

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Frequently Asked Questions

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Speak With Us Today!

Partner in Prevention is an organization or business that has committed the time and effort to educate themselves on how to prevent, recognize, and react responsibly to child sexual abuse. An organization receives the Darkness to Light Partner in Prevention distinction when they have successfully met the annual guidelines established by Darkness to Light.

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