kNot Today Appoints Executive Director
Alyssa Van Vactor
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As a subscriber you can listen to articles at work, in the car, or while you work out. Subscribe NowIndianapolis-based kNot Today, founded by Indianapolis Colts Head Coach Frank Reich and his wife Linda to protect children from sexual abuse, exploitation and trafficking, has appointed Alyssa Van Vactor executive director.
She brings nearly a decade of experience in nonprofit leadership to accelerate kNot Today’s mission of generating awareness, initiating prevention strategies and assisting in the development of restoration programs for sexually abused and exploited children.
As executive director, Van Vactor will work closely with the Reichs and the kNot Today board to ensure the organization can effectively serve schools and caregivers, law enforcement and nonprofits as they continue to protect and restore children across Indiana. Her first project is launching a child protection guide for caregivers nationwide and overseeing kNot Today’s presence at Colts Training Camp in Westfield this summer.
Van Vactor most recently served as a director at the Crossing School of Business and Entrepreneurship, a private school based in Indiana that supports at-risk youth as they work toward their high school diploma and gain needed job skills and training. She previously spent 10 years working in elementary education. An Indiana native, she earned her degree in education and family health and wellness from Ball State University.
“The vision Coach and Linda Reich have for set forth for kNot Today is remarkable,” said Van Vactor. “Not one child should have to suffer from the consequences of adults who should be protecting them. I’ve spent my entire career advocating for the healthy development of children, and I look forward to bringing my expertise in education and nonprofit leadership to advance awareness and prevention strategies that will make a significant impact in Indiana and nationwide.”
According to a 2021 report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), one of four girls and one of 13 boys have experienced child sexual abuse at some point. The effects of child sexual abuse can be long-lasting and affect the victim’s mental health. Victims are more likely than non-victims to experience drug abuse, PTSD and depression.