“Your safety is your right. Never hesitate to speak up and seek help.”
This simple yet powerful message became the heart of a safeguarding strengthening session organized by Yayasan Rumah Impian Indonesia (YRII) for children living at the Children Crisis Center (CCC) on Saturday, May 30, 2026. Held from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at Sendang Ayu Restaurant, the event brought together 15 children residing at the center, accompanied by caregivers and YRII staff members.
For many children who have experienced difficult circumstances in their lives, feeling safe is not something they have always been able to take for granted. This is why helping them understand their rights and equipping them with the skills to protect themselves is an essential part of the healing and support process at the Children Crisis Center.
The session began with interactive games facilitated by Deska, a Dream Mentor at YRII. Through engaging and enjoyable activities, the children were invited into a warm and trusting environment. Their laughter and enthusiasm filled the room, reminding everyone that meaningful learning often begins when children feel safe, welcomed, and valued.
Following the games, the safeguarding session was led by Yosua, Executive Director of Yayasan Rumah Impian Indonesia. Using child-friendly language and relatable examples, he introduced the concept of safeguarding and explained why every child deserves protection from harm, exploitation, and abuse.
The children learned about their fundamental rights, including the right to life, development, protection, and participation. They discussed how these rights apply in everyday settings such as home, school, residential care, and online spaces. The session also explored different forms of harm that children may encounter, including bullying, verbal and physical violence, exploitation, sexual abuse, and cyberbullying.
One of the most engaging parts of the program was the “Safe Zone and Unsafe Zone” activity. Through real-life scenarios, the children were encouraged to identify whether a situation was safe or unsafe. This exercise helped them develop awareness of warning signs and reinforced the idea that feelings of discomfort should never be ignored.
The discussion then shifted toward practical responses when facing unsafe situations. The children learned the importance of saying “no,” leaving situations that make them feel threatened, and seeking help from trusted adults. They were reminded that reporting abuse or violence is not something to be ashamed of—it is a brave act that can protect both themselves and others.
At Yayasan Rumah Impian Indonesia, safeguarding is more than a policy document. It is a commitment to creating environments where children are respected, protected, and empowered to thrive. It reflects our belief that every child deserves to grow up in a community where their dignity is upheld and their voices are heard.
Seeing the children actively participate, ask questions, and share their thoughts throughout the session was deeply encouraging. It demonstrated not only their growing understanding of their rights but also their increasing confidence to advocate for themselves and seek support when needed.
The event concluded with a shared lunch, providing an opportunity for fellowship and informal conversations. Amid the warmth and togetherness, there was a shared hope that each child would continue to grow with confidence, resilience, and the knowledge that they are never alone.
This activity was funded through a social assistance grant from the Social Affairs Office of the Special Region of Yogyakarta and supported by Rotary Club of Jogja Merapi (RCJM). Such collaboration reflects a shared commitment to strengthening child protection efforts and ensuring that vulnerable children have access to safe spaces, meaningful support, and opportunities to thrive.
Yayasan Rumah Impian Indonesia is committed to creating safe environments where every child can heal, grow, and thrive. If you would like to support our child protection and recovery programs, we invite you to learn more about our work and explore opportunities to partner with us in building brighter futures for vulnerable children.
Because every child deserves to feel safe.
And every child deserves to be heard.