Scripture and United Methodist tradition remind us of the priority God places on human life and how we treat one another. Valuing people and serving them well requires that the safety of children and vulnerable adults is embedded in the way we conduct ourselves in service to others.

Volunteers who serve on governance committees or regularly participate in church-sponsored ministries serving children, students, vulnerable or elder adults, whether on- or off-site, are required to complete a volunteer application and the Safe Gatherings certification process. The application includes consent to conduct a background check on all applicants age 16 and up.

For volunteers under the age of 18, an application should be completed by a parent or guardian.

Here are the documents you will be asked to review and acknowledge as part of the application:

• Safety of Children and Vulnerable Adults Policy
• Code of Conduct - Working with Protected People
• Best Practices - Working with Protected People
• Reporting Suspected Violations of Policies, Laws, and Ethical Standards Policy
• Volunteer Leader Covenant

A Report of Suspected Abuse should be promptly filed if you have a good faith concern about the safety of a child or vulnerable adult participating in church-sponsored ministries.

For questions about the Safety of Children and Vulnerable Adults Policy or to report suspected violations of policies, laws, or ethical standards, contact Kate Wood, our Safety, Compliance, and Risk Management Lead Director.