A Naperville-based nonprofit says it will review its child protection practices after a board member was charged with child pornography.
Erich Kroll, 48, vice president of the fundraising board for KidsMatter, was charged this week with five counts of child pornography. He was released from jail after paying the $150,000 bail.
In a statement released after learning of his Tuesday arrest by the DuPage County Sheriff’s Office, KidsMatter CEO and Executive Director Nina Menis said the board voted Wednesday to remove Kroll as a board member and fundraiser.
Because Kroll’s role was limited to fundraising and strategy, Menis said, Kroll was not involved in any of the programming provided to youth and families by KidsMatter and its partners throughout Will and DuPage counties, including schools, public safety agencies, faith-based communities, and local businesses.
Child protection practices are in place at KidsMatter and with its partners, and those apply to everyone who works with youth in programs, she said.
“Nevertheless, we are going to take this opportunity to review and, if ever necessary, strengthen our practices around protecting the youth we serve. Nothing is more important to us,” Menis said.
As a nonprofit organization, KidsMatter has pursued its mission of helping young people build positive values, healthy relationships and greater self-esteem for two decades under the guidance of civic, educational and government leaders, she said.
“We pledge to continue to earn your trust and to serve our communities in the most caring, effective and transparent approach we can provide,” Menis said.
KidsMatter provides a variety of services, including free one-on-one online tutoring, career and leadership mentoring, and online resources on youth issues of abuse and addiction, anxiety and stress, and digital awareness.
It is partnering with the Naperville Park District to hold the 15th annual Frontier Kite Fly from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. June 5 at Frontier Sports Complex, 3380 Cedar Glade Drive.
In addition, the nonprofit distributed stress relief care packages to high school students in Naperville District 203 and Indian Prairie District 204 schools as part of For Mental Health Week this month.
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