The Unity for Children project champions proactive, collaborative actions across society to safeguard children from the harm of substance abuse and traumatic events through a continuous, comprehensive review and reform of policies, programs, and systems. The goal is to safeguard them now and break the intergenerational cycle of Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACE) and ensure a brighter future for children and their families.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) — potentially traumatic events that occur in childhood — are common:
About 61% of adults surveyed across 25 states reported experiencing at least one ACE, such as violence, abuse, neglect, or substance use issues in the home.
Nearly 1 in 6 reported experiencing 4 or more ACEs.
Women and some ethnic minority groups had a greater risk of experiencing four or more ACEs.