Policy for Providing a Safe Environment for Children and Youth We want to provide a safe environment for the children and youth who attend activities at our church or who attend events sponsored by the church. We also want to safeguard all paid employees, staff, clergy, and volunteers. In order to provide this environment, the church is implementing the following policies: Responsible Screening of Employees1. All paid church employees, including clergy, will undergo a thorough screening process as a part of the job application procedure. 2. A documented reference check, prior to employment, will be done on all paid employees working with children or youth. 3. A pre-employment criminal history investigation will be made for all persons being considered for full-time or permanent part-time paid employment. A pastor and/or the Personnel Committee will review and evaluate any information obtained from the inquiry into the applicant's criminal history. All information obtained in such an investigation, including any review/evaluation notes, will become a part of the applicant's permanent personnel file. Responsible Screening of Volunteers4. All volunteer workers for any and all positions involving work with children or youth will be screened. 5. All adult volunteers working with preschoolers, children, or youth are required to be members of our church for a minimum of six months. 6. Adults who have been convicted of either child sexual or physical abuse may NOT do volunteer service in any church-sponsored activity or program involving children or youth. 7. Adult survivors of childhood sexual or physical abuse need the love and acceptance of this church family. Individuals who have such a history should discuss their desire to work with preschoolers, children, or youth with one of the pastoral staff prior to engaging in any volunteer service. Providing a Safe Environment8. All volunteers must observe the "two adult" rule. This rule requires that adults are never alone with children or youth without another adult partner present. 9. All church staff and regular volunteers who work with children or youth will complete the training that is recommended and offered in regard to the nature of child abuse; and, in regard to carrying out our policies to prevent sexual abuse. 10. Pertinent state law information concerning child abuse reporting obligations will be posted in the church office. 11. Reporting procedures and response strategy regarding any suspected incident of child and/or sexual abuse are to be developed and periodically updated jointly by the church staff. 12. The Church Administrator will do an annual needs/risk management assessment and update as to adequate liability insurance coverage. Providing A Proper Response13. All volunteers must immediately report any behaviors that seem abusive or inappropriate to their supervisor. 14. Response to any and all media inquiries, if an incident occurs, shall be the responsibility of the senior pastor only. 15. Our church takes our policies to prevent molestation and/or sexual abuse seriously and intends to see that the policies are enforced.    Create a Plan to Strategically Develop Small Group LeadersThere are leaders all around you. Learn how to help them grow.  Volunteer ApplicationsThey may sound unnecessary, but applications can help your volunteers succeed. Longing to Make a Difference What keeps next gen volunteers going? Knowing they made a difference. Identify Whom You Want to Influence Recognize those who will most be able to help you.
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