Stop child sexual abuse before it happens

Dear GlobalGiving Friends and Donors, Each reporting period reminds us that meaningful change begins with people who choose to extend a helping hand. Thanks to your generosity and trust, Fundación Azulado has continued supporting children and families in vulnerable situations, providing them with protection, guidance, and the opportunity to build a brighter future. Over the past three months, we have strengthened our child abuse prevention efforts through our "My Shield" program. By reaching both urban and rural communities, we have equipped children with the knowledge and life skills they need to understand their rights, express their emotions, build self-confidence, and protect themselves. Every workshop represents another step toward creating safer childhoods and communities that are more aware of their shared responsibility to protect children. At the same time, we have continued providing psychological counseling and therapeutic support to children, adolescents, and families who have experienced abuse. We understand that healing takes time, compassion, and consistent care. That is why we strive to create safe spaces where every individual feels heard, supported, and empowered throughout their recovery journey. The impact we share today is the result of a collective effort. You are part of every story of resilience, every child who regains confidence, and every family that finds renewed hope for the future. Looking ahead, we remain committed to expanding our reach, strengthening our programs, and increasing access to prevention and support services for even more children and families. With partners like you, we believe we can continue building communities where every child grows up free from violence and has the opportunity to reach their full potential. On behalf of everyone at Fundación Azulado and the families we serve, thank you for believing in our mission and making this work possible. We look forward to continuing this journey together and sharing even more stories of hope and transformation in the months to come. With heartfelt gratitude, Paulina Ponce, MS Executive Director Fundación Azulado

Dear GlobalGiving friends and supporters,

On behalf of Fundación Azulado, I am pleased to share an update on the progress we have made in recent months through our child protection initiatives. Your continued generosity and commitment to safeguarding children have allowed us to expand our reach and strengthen prevention efforts across vulnerable communities in Ecuador.

Strengthening Prevention Through Education

Since February 2025, Fundación Azulado has been implementing the “Mi Escudo” (My Shield) Child Sexual Abuse Prevention Program in nine public schools located in both urban and rural areas. This evidence-informed program equips children with essential tools to recognize risks, build emotional resilience, and protect themselves from abuse, violence, and neglect.

Through interactive and play-based learning methods, children participate in engaging activities that help them:

• Recognize unsafe situations and behaviors

• Strengthen self-esteem and personal boundaries

• Identify trusted adults who can provide support

• Develop confidence to speak up and seek help when needed

During this reporting period, the program has reached 4,391 children, providing them with critical knowledge and skills that empower them to protect their rights and personal safety.

Building Protective Communities

Child protection requires a collective effort. For this reason, the Mi Escudo program works not only with students but also with the adults who play key roles in their lives.

As part of this comprehensive approach:

• 168 teachers have received specialized training to create emotionally safe and supportive classroom environments.

• 1,620 parents and caregivers have participated in workshops focused on positive parenting, communication, and recognizing signs of abuse.

By strengthening the capacity of families and educators, we ensure that prevention extends beyond the classroom and becomes embedded within homes and communities.

Supporting Survivors

In addition to prevention activities, Fundación Azulado continues to provide psychological counseling and therapeutic support to children and families who have experienced abuse. Our professional team offers trauma-informed care and emotional guidance to help survivors navigate their healing process with dignity and hope.

Looking Ahead

We remain committed to expanding the reach of the Mi Escudo program to additional schools—particularly in rural areas where access to prevention education is limited. At the same time, we continue to monitor and evaluate the program’s impact to strengthen its long-term effectiveness in protecting children.

Together, with your support, we are building safer environments where every child can grow up protected, respected, and full of opportunities.

Thank you for believing in this mission and for helping us transform the lives of thousands of children across Ecuador.

With sincere gratitude,