Photo by SRL Media, Inc
Child abuse occurs across socioeconomic, ethnic, cultural and religious lines. A 2022 study by the Child Molestation Research and Prevention Institute found that 95% of this abuse is preventable through education and awareness.
Since 2007, Lauren Book, founder and CEO of Lauren’s Kids, has made it her mission to shine a light on this silent epidemic and, through guidance and support, help survivors heal and reclaim their lives.
As a victim of childhood sexual abuse at the hands of a trusted family caregiver, Book, 41, understands the urgency of protecting children.
“From that experience, I wanted to turn something that was very deeply painful into something positive, so I founded the organization,” says the former state senator and mom of two. “There’s shame, embarrassment, guilt and fear that goes into the dynamic — that is why predators are able to abuse kids for as long as they do.”
The 501(c)(3) nonprofit, based in Hollywood, Fla., informs adults and children about sexual abuse prevention through its Safer, Smarter Schools pre-K-through-12th-grade curriculum; resources for families; Suncoast Regional Emmy– and ADDY Award–winning awareness campaigns; and domestic and international speaking engagements.
Children as young as 3 are subjected to sexual abuse, Book explains. Many never disclose it — particularly when the abuser is someone they know and trust, such as a family member or another adult in their lives.
“The most important message is that it’s never the child’s fault,” says Book, a native South Floridian who lives in western Broward County. “There are incredible resources that help them become survivors. Prevention is key.”
In addition to fundraisers like the Celebrity Golf Classic, Gala Dinner, Florida specialty license plates and the Lauren’s Kids store, the nonprofit raises money and awareness through its annual Walk in My Shoes, a 1,500-mile monthlong trek from Key West to Tallahassee that’s held each April. The event coincides with Sexual Assault Awareness Month and National Child Abuse Prevention Month. Book says the walk brings together participants of all ages from across the country and has become a powerful symbol of resilience.
Her focus now is on strengthening prevention efforts through education that resonates with children.
“We’re constantly updating our curriculum and digital safety information to ensure we are evolving,” she says, “and strive to do so in a fun manner.”
For more information or to support Lauren’s Kids, call 786-288-5045 or visit laurenskids.org.