IRVING, TX (April 21, 2025) – In a powerful step for safeguarding, Scouting America is proud to announce its role as a national partner in #MyFriendToo US, a groundbreaking initiative and resource – MyFriendTooUS.org – launched during Child Abuse Prevention Month to help children support their friends in disclosing sexual abuse to safe adults.

Originally created by Protect Children in Finland and adapted for the U.S. in collaboration with ChildFund, #MyFriendToo US is the first program of its kind in the country, directly addressing the fact that children often disclose abuse to a friend rather than to an adult. The initiative equips children and youth with the knowledge, tools, and language to guide their friends toward safety and healing.

“As part of our unwavering commitment to safeguarding youth, Scouting America is honored to stand alongside more than a dozen like-minded organizations as part of the #MyFriendToo US Committee,” said Glen Pounder, Scouting America chief safeguarding officer. “We’re grateful to Protect Children Finland for identifying this niche area and we’re helping young people recognize their role as allies and protectors, not to put the responsibility on children’s shoulders, but to help empower them with the knowledge they need to navigate difficult situations.”

MyFriendTooUS.org offers age-appropriate resources for youth, caregivers, and educators, including how to identify a trusted adult, where to go for help, and how to respond if a friend discloses abuse. Designed with input from children and youth safety experts, the website speaks directly to young people in clear, compassionate, peer-like language and is fully accessible to children with disabilities.

Scouting America’s involvement underscores its broader commitment to youth protection, education, and advocacy. The organization will help amplify the initiative through its national network of volunteers, leaders, and families, integrating the platform into existing youth protection training and awareness campaigns.

The #MyFriendToo US Committee includes organizations such as the YMCA, Boys Town, Camp Fire, kNot Today, the Higher Education Protection Network, and the Becca Schmill Foundation—uniting a powerful coalition to protect children from sexual violence and support survivors.

Learn more at: MyFriendTooUS.org