Protecting Our Youth: Understanding Sextortion; Knowledge is Protection

Description

You're invited to an important community event on Wednesday, April 30, 2025, at The Grand Theater in Wausau, focused on preventing and understanding sextortion—a growing threat to the safety and well-being of our youth. Hosted by the Mental Health Collaborative, this event aims to raise awareness about sextortion and its impact on youth, while empowering young people to seek help and equipping adults with the knowledge and tools to recognize, respond to, and support the challenges kids are facing. The evening will include expert-led discussions and a resource fair, all designed to support parents, guardians, and caregivers in keeping children safe in an increasingly digital world. A featured presentation by John DeMay—“A Father’s Story: Suicide by Sextortion”—will offer a powerful and personal account of the devastating impact sextortion can have. Introduced by Brittney Bird, this presentation shares the story of John’s son, Jordan DeMay, a typical, outgoing 17-year-old whose life was tragically cut short by an online sextortion plot. John's message underscores the urgent need for awareness, education, and open conversations to help protect our youth. · Resource Fair begins at 5:30 PM · Main Program runs from 6:00 to 8:00 PM Please note: Parental discretion is advised, as the content is not appropriate for children under age 10. RSVP is encouraged but not required. RSVP here. Join us and be part of the solution to protecting our youth. Please share widely within your networks and community, all are welcome.