Safe Sanctuaries 2008

We encourage a “two-adult rule” which requires no fewer than 2 adults present at all times during any church-sponsored program, event or ministry involving children and youth.  The significance of this rule cannot be overstated.  A church will drastically reduce the possibility of an incident of child abuse if this rule is followed.  In cases where this places a great stress upon the congregation, the only other option is to let the second adult be a floater among children’s classes or groups.

Provide first aid and CPR training on an annual basis for all church workers with children and youth or always have phone access to a person who has first aid and CPR training. 

All workers, children and youth, whether they are paid, volunteer, part-time, full-time, clergy or lay, will be required to review an orientation package annually.  At this session they will be given a package of information of the policies and procedures.

No workers under the age of 18 shall work with infants.  If youth, under the age of 18 work with infants, they must do it in a training capacity with an adult.

Each room set aside for children and youth must have a window, a door with a window or a half door or an open door with a gate.

Advance notice and full information regarding events will always be given to all parents.

A criminal background check will be required for all adult children’s and youth workers age 18 and older. 

All children’s and youth events will be Safe Sanctuary Events.  A posted sign on church grounds will state we are a safe sanctuary.

A person wishing to volunteer for any area of service relating to children or youth should have been involved at the church for at least six months. 

All workers with children and youth must know the state requirements in reporting abuse to law enforcement authorities and child protective services.  In NC you are mandated, if there is reasonable cause, to report suspected cases of child abuse. 

VOLUNTEER PARTICIPATION COVENANT STATEMENT

The congregation of Myers Memorial UMC is committed to providing a safe and secure environment for all children, youth and volunteers who participate in ministries and activities sponsored by the Church. The following statements reflect our congregation’s commitment to preserving this Church as a holy place of safety and protection for all who would enter and as a place in which all people can experience the love of God through relationships with others.

1

  No adult who has been convicted for, entered a guilty plea or a plea of nolo contendere/no contest to, or been the subject of deferred prosecution or prayer for judgment continued for, a crime (felony or misdemeanor) involving children under the age of 18 or child abuse or neglect (either sexual abuse, physical abuse, or emotional abuse) should volunteer or otherwise be allowed to work with children or youth in any Church-sponsored activity.

2

Adult survivors of child abuse need the love and support of our congregation. Any adult survivor who desires to volunteer in some capacity to work with children or youth is encouraged to discuss his/her willingness with one of our Church’s ministers before accepting an assignment.

3

All adult volunteers assisting with children or youth of our Church must have been involved in the congregation for at least six months before beginning a volunteer assignment.

4

Adult volunteers with children and youth shall attend regular training and educational events provided by the Church to keep volunteers informed of Church policies and state laws regarding child abuse.

5

Adult volunteers will immediately report to the pastor or staff any behavior that seems abusive or inappropriate.

For a printable copy of the Volunteer Participation Covenant Statement and form, click HERE.

For a Safe Sanctuaries Volunteer application click HERE