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Amateur Athletic Association to address child sexual abuse concerns

In light of several cases emerging in recent weeks that involve alleged child sexual abuse associated with athletic programs, The Amateur Athletic Association has appointed two independent task forces. These task forces will address protocols, policies, and procedures at the AAU. Florida's 89.1, WUFT-FM's Paula Cunniffe spoke with CEO and founder of Lauren's Kids, Lauren Book, and her father Ron Book, who is chairman of the board of Lauren's Kids. Laurens Kids was appointed by the AAU to work on one of its task forces.

Lauren Book has helped pass at least a dozen laws in Florida to help victims, prevent abuse, and punish offenders. This week she provided written testimony to the Senate subcommittee on Health, Education, Labor and Pensions, recommending a law that requires universities to report child sex abuse or lose federal funding.  Book was sexually abused as a child by her nanny for six years, which prompted her to found Lauren's Kids.

http://www.wuft.org/media/audio/BOOKQandA.mp3

Paula is a reporter for WUFT News who may be contacted by calling 352-392-6397 or emailing news @wuft.org