Darkness to Light Expands Scholarships for Child Abuse Prevention Leaders
News related to:Darkness to Light · 1 min read
CHARLESTON, S.C., Oct. 16, 2026 /CourierPR/ -- Darkness to Light, a leading organization in child sexual abuse prevention, has expanded its efforts to support local prevention leaders through the 2026 Stewards of Children® Advocacy Awards. This initiative aims to equip adults and organizations with the knowledge and tools necessary to protect children from abuse.
Building on the success of previous years, the 2026 awards cycle will offer nearly $40,000 in scholarships to 22 organizations across 16 states. This marks a significant increase from the $6,000 awarded to seven organizations in 2024. Rhonda Newton, CEO of Darkness to Light, emphasized the importance of these scholarships in removing barriers and empowering prevention leaders to expand their impact.
The program supports the expansion of Stewards of Children® training, Authorized Facilitator certification, and training resources. These tools are designed to help recipients prepare more adults to prevent, recognize, and react responsibly to child sexual abuse. Applications are now open and will close on October 30, 2026.
Scholarships can support Authorized Facilitator certification, Stewards of Children® training, and training materials or seats. This initiative is part of Darkness to Light's Advocacy Collaborative, a group of partners, donors, and prevention advocates committed to strengthening community-based prevention.
The organization encourages applications from a wide range of organizations, including child advocacy centers, schools, youth-serving organizations, faith-based communities, nonprofits, and independent Facilitators. The goal is to expand prevention education and strengthen child protection in communities across the United States.
By investing in local prevention leaders, Darkness to Light aims to create a safer environment for children in communities across the country. The 2026 Stewards of Children® Advocacy Awards offer a unique opportunity for organizations to enhance their child safety efforts and make a meaningful difference in the lives of young people.