Penn State York senior Kara Smith, left, makes sure her candle stays lit after helping to light candles for freshman Angela Marie Flynn and sophomore Brian Baker Thursday, before the second annual candlelight walk and vigil for child abuse victims. (DAILY RECORD/SUNDAY NEWS – CHRIS DUNN)
Education reporter Angie Mason attended an event at Penn State York’s campus to raise awareness to the dangers of child abuse.
The candlelight vigil started last year shortly after the news about former Penn State defensive coach Jerry Sandusky’s abuse allegations. During the walk, the students and others in attendance repeat a pledge:
“I believe that every child has a right to grow up free from the shadow of abuse. I believe that the responsibility to protect children rests solely in adult hands. I believe that, as adults, we must remain ever vigilant and dedicate no less than the best of ourselves to that purpose.
To all the victims of abuse, male and female, adult and child, known and unknown: I pledge to educate myself about the realities of child abuse; I pledge to give voice and report any and all suspicions; I pledge to cast a light in the darkness by doing the right thing the first time — every time.”
What do you think people can do to help prevent child abuse in York County?
The Lehman Center provides emergency respite as a form of child abuse/neglect prevent for children ages 0-6. The hotline number can connect you with a staff member to discuss how they can help.