I (Fran Henry) founded Stop It Now! in 1992 because I am a survivor of child sexual abuse. As I grew up, I learned there are millions of us in society, many who are suffering and feeling unnecessary shame because of society's decades of ignorance and denial. In 1992, there were very few prevention programs and those that did exist focused exclusively on teaching children basic protection skills. Those programs were an important and necessary first step, but the gravity and complexity of child sexual abuse required more, and different, programs if sexual abuse was to be prevented before it happens.

Many people have a part to play in preventing child sexual abuse. If you know someone who is or could be abusing a child, you can learn to ask the right questions of that person. If you are someone who has abused, or feels at risk to abuse, you can learn how devastating your behavior will be. There is help and treatment available that can help you change. Everyone involved with children needs to learn that sexual abuse is a crime, and children themselves can be reinforced in the truth that they have a right to their sexual and physical well-being.

Stop It Now! was started, and still exists, to provide information and hope. Even though child sexual abuse still harms many children and families, individuals need courage to face sexual abuse in a straightforward way. When people get the right information, and suggestions about what actions they can take, they find the strength it takes to make the right choices. Anyone who needs help can call the Stop It Now! Helpline.

After thirteen years of heading Stop It Now!, I have moved away from the leadership role. I have not, however, wavered in my belief that Stop It Now! provides a vital solution that would have made a huge difference in my life forty years ago. Stop It Now!'s pioneering work can keep our kids safer and healthier. Stop It Now! prevents child sexual abuse by giving adults, families and communities the tools they need to take action and protect children, especially before they are harmed. Our Helpline and information helps protective adults create safety plans, prepare for difficult conversations and identify steps to take to keep children safe and healthy. We provide the tools, support and guidance to help adults feel confident and prepared to provide the safest environments possible for children and youth. We need your help to continue delivering resources, providing support, and caring for children.