Home / Community Support / YMCA Youth and Family Services / Youth and Young Adult Development / CAAVE / Adverse Childhood Experiences

What are Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs)?

Adverse Childhood Experiences, also known as "ACEs", are potentially traumatic events that occur during childhood. Exposure to ACEs have been shown to increase chronic diseases, mental illness, and substance abuse, and can negatively impact education and economic stability in adulthood. Learn more about ACEs from the CDC.

What’s important to understand is that ACEs is not destiny. Together, we can buffer the effects of ACEs to create communities where every child can thrive.

OUR SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY

Many of our clients have experienced ACEs which have impacted their mental and physical health, and increased stress.  Research shows strengthening the protective capacities of parents helps children and families thrive and prevents child maltreatment.  With our partners American Academy of Pediatrics, Chapter 3 and SDSU Social Policy Institute, we are committed to building a stronger support system for families. 

ACEs Digital Manual

The front of a digital booklet with an image of three children laughing together and the title Buffering the Affects of Adverse Childhood Experiences         The front of a digital booklet with an image of three children laughing together and the title Buffering the Affects of Adverse Childhood Experiences

ENGLISH DOWNLOAD  |  DESCARGA ESPAÑOL

Supporting YMCA Programs

Informative Articles

Finding Peace and Joy This Holiday Season

Need to Know Information

ACEs AWARE

Led by the Office of the Surgeon General, ACEs Aware gives Medi-Cal providers training, clinical protocols, and payment for screening children and adults for ACEs. Detecting ACEs early and connecting patients to interventions, resources, and other support can improve the health and well-being of individuals and families. Learn more about ACEs Aware.

Center on the Developing Child (Harvard University)

Drive science-based innovation that achieves breakthrough outcomes for children facing adversity. Discover more at Harvard University.

If you are interested in learning more about the Y 's work with combatting Adverse Childhood Experiences, email us! 

In partnership with