The manual explains the roles of primary, secondary, and tertiary prevention and emphasizes the need to recognize that sexual abuse is common, affecting approximately 1 in 4 girls and 1 in 10 boys by the age of 18. Advocates of programs are urged to identify the resources available in their communities, the scope of existing prevention efforts, and sources for funding and support. They are also urged to address common concerns about prevention education and to develop and present a basic philosophy. The programs of Illusion Theater rest on several assumptions. Among these are that sexual abuse prevention is a safety program, that children deserve to be empowered with knowledge to protect themselves, that children who are ignorant are more vulnerable, and that children can handle receiving the information if adults can handle giving it. Steps in starting a program include deciding on the project's size and scope, setting reasonable goals, gaining access to the schools, and identifying ways to raise the necessary funds. Programs should also use existing curriculum resources and should include evaluation components. Lists of resource materials and organizations and 12 references.