At the end of 2014, new laws took effect that required all employees and volunteers working with children to receive background checks. Laws were amended in 2015 that changed the requirement from every 3 years to every 5 years and made some of the background checks free for volunteers.  If you just began this process in 2014, it is time to think about renewing these background checks.

The laws that went into effect in 2014 also put into place the new reality that our church volunteers became mandated reporters.  This means that if a church volunteer becomes aware of or suspects abuse or neglect of a child, that they are required to report it.  If your employees and/or volunteers have not been informed or trained on mandated reporting requires, please schedule one.  You can utilize the information and training resources below.  If you need additional assistance with providing such training, please reach out to the Synod office.

If your congregation does not already have a policy that outlines how children and youth [and all members] will be kept safe in your church, please begin working on one!  If your insurance carrier has not yet required you to do so, they probably request a copy of this Safety policy soon.  Our website has some model policies that will help you get started - click here.