A Northern California youth organization is facing another civil lawsuit alleging that a former staff member sexually abused a child participant, bringing renewed attention to child safety practices within youth-serving organizations.
The May 2026 lawsuit was filed against Sonoma Valley Boys & Girls Club and related entities over allegations involving former athletic director Paul “Dwayne” Kilgore, who previously faced criminal proceedings related to child sexual abuse allegations involving multiple boys. Kilgore was sentenced to 150 years in prison in March 2018.
An individual identified as John Doe 10 alleges he experienced sexual abuse while participating in Boys & Girls Club activities years ago.
Previous civil lawsuits similarly alleged that organizational leaders failed to adequately respond to warning signs and reports of inappropriate conduct from Kilgore.
Latest Allegations Add to Long-Running Legal Issues
The newly filed complaint alleges that the plaintiff was sexually abused by Kilgore while participating in activities associated with the Boys & Girls Club. As with all civil litigation, the allegations contained in the lawsuit have not been proven in court.
The case follows years of scrutiny surrounding the former athletic director’s conduct. Public reporting and prior court proceedings indicate that Kilgore worked at the Boys & Girls Club of Sonoma Valley from approximately 2002 until 2013 before later working at another Boys & Girls Club location in Petaluma. Previous lawsuits alleged that concerns about his behavior had been raised before criminal charges were ultimately filed.
The latest filing underscores the reality that many victims of childhood sexual abuse do not come forward immediately. It is common for survivors to wait years—or even decades—before disclosing what happened, often due to fear, shame, confusion, trauma, or concerns about how others may respond.
Youth Organizations Have a Responsibility to Protect Children
Organizations that serve children often implement safety measures such as background checks, staff training, reporting procedures, supervision requirements, and policies designed to identify and address potential misconduct.
When allegations of sexual abuse arise within youth-serving programs, civil lawsuits frequently examine whether an organization took reasonable steps to protect children, properly responded to complaints, or followed mandatory reporting requirements.
Importantly, the filing of a lawsuit does not establish liability. Civil proceedings provide a legal process through which allegations can be investigated, evidence can be presented, and facts can be evaluated.
Cases involving youth organizations can also prompt broader discussions about institutional accountability and child protection practices. Many advocates argue that organizations entrusted with children’s care should continually evaluate and strengthen safeguards designed to prevent abuse and misconduct.
Get Help Understanding Your Rights and Options
If you experienced sexual abuse while participating in a Boys & Girls Club program, or another youth-serving program, you may have rights and options available to you.
Helping Survivors provides educational resources, support information, and connections to experienced attorneys who handle civil sexual abuse cases. Our team understands that every survivor’s experience is different, and there is no single path forward that is right for everyone.
To learn more about your legal options, contact Helping Survivors for a free and confidential consultation.
