Introduction

"Your Role in Protecting Children Against Child Neglect and Abuse"

As members of a youth serving organization it is important that adults are aware of their responsibility for child safety. Our hope is that all children will live in a safe environment but we know that children are exposed to neglect and abuse. We have a responsibility to educate ourselves and the children with whom we work about the risks to the welfare of a child.

As a volunteer with Penn State Cooperative Extension you should report suspected child abuse cases to your Extension Agent even though you are not mandated under the Pennsylvania Child Protective Services Law to report child neglect and abuse. The Extension Agent will follow through with established reporting requirements.

Yet, as you interact with youth in your role as a volunteer, you may become aware of situations in which you would like to take some action to protect the welfare of a child. Although local children and youth services employ experts who will investigate any reports, they rely on people who have direct contact with youth to report their suspicions of abuse or neglect. This brochure has been developed to answer some common questions that volunteers have concerning the reporting of child neglect and abuse. If you have further questions, please contact the Extension Agent at your local Penn State Cooperative Extension office.