1 Corinthians 13 – “…Love always protects, Love always trusts…”
”Safe Sanctuaries” is the training and education program we give to every volunteer and employee who works with youth or children. Not only does Safe Sanctuary strive to fully protect children and youth, but it is also designed to protect the volunteer.
A “SAFE SANCTUARY” CONGREGATION
- Strives diligently to REDUCE the RISK of child abuse
- Develops POLICIES and PROCEDURES for its volunteers who work with children and youth
- PROTECTS our children and youth
- PROTECTS our volunteers
“SAFE SANCTUARY” CERTIFICATION
“Safe Sanctuary” certification is REQUIRED of every adult volunteer who serves in ANY group or organization using St. Stephen UMC’s name or facilities BEFORE he or she works with children and youth to learn:
- the “Safe Sanctuary” Policy
- practical approaches for the safe operation of ministries with children and youth expectations
- how to recognize the signs of abuse
- how to protect he children, youth, and oneself
BECOMING “SAFE SANCTUARY” CERTIFIED
- Attend a “Safe Sanctuary” Training Seminar
- Complete a Volunteer Application Form
- Complete and have approved a National Criminal Background and DMV Check
- Three personal references
- Commit to becoming certified in First Aid and CPR
- Sign a Covenant of Commitment
Please join us in accomplishing our goal of making St. Stephen UMC a “Safe Sanctuary” by becoming certified, and encouraging every adult member to also be certified. Our goal is not only for the volunteers to be certified, but the entire congregation so that EVERYONE is striving to protect our children and youth!
IF YOU SUSPECT ABUSE
All suspected cases of abuses are taken seriously and immediately.
DO NOT confront the alleged offender.
DO NOT explain away, justify, place blame or accuse the victim.
DO NOT speak to the media.
DO remove the adult and child from the situation
DO notify the minister in charge
DO take steps to assure the child’s safety until parents arrive.
For more information contact Rev. Brandon K. Dirks, Deacon Associate brandondirks@ststephenumc.net
