Child sexual abuse victim Matthew Sandusky speaks at the Century Center

SOUTH BEND, Ind. -- Matthew Sandusky was at the Century Center on Thursday night to share his story of resiliency and hope after surviving years of sexual abuse.

Matthew Sandusky was sexually abused by his adopted father, former Penn state assistant football coach, Jerry Sandusky.

Matthew Sandusky was 8 years old when Jerry Sandusky began sexually abusing him.

Jerry Sandusky was convicted of 45 counts of sexual abuse in 2012.

Matthew Sandusky has been an outspoken advocate for sexual abuse victims as well as an author.

He released a book called “Undaunted: Breaking My Silence to Overcome the Trauma of Child Sexual Abuse” in 2015 which centered on silent victimization and overcoming childhood pain.

He is hoping that by sharing his story, he can help prevent and eventually bring an end to child sexual abuse.

He wants to help others with similar experiences heal and recover.

“The reward is in telling what I’ve been through. It’s in helping those other victims. It’s in helping future victims and really educating and trying to end this,” Matthew Sandusky said.

He has also helped the public learn how to recognize the signs of sexual abuse.

He is the founder and Executive Director of the Peaceful Hearts Foundation.

He raises awareness around child sexual abuse in local communities, supports the life-saving work of children's advocacy and sexual assault treatment centers, and advocates for legislative changes.

He also works with researchers, clinicians, the media, politicians, social workers and child protection professionals to raise awareness and improve the quality and availability of services to survivors nationwide.

For more information and resources, please visit the Family & Children's Center's website.