Safe Sanctuary

At Higher Ground Church we are committed to creating a Safe Sanctuary for every child, youth, and vulnerable adult who participates in our ministries. Safety is a spiritual priority — loving and protecting one another is part of living out our faith.

Our commitment

• We believe every person is created in God’s image and deserves dignity, respect, and protection.

• We will provide safe, welcoming environments where children, youth, and vulnerable adults can learn, play, and grow in faith.

• We take allegations or concerns about abuse seriously and will respond promptly, compassionately, and appropriately.

Standards and practices

• Screening: All staff and volunteers who work with minors or vulnerable adults undergo background checks, reference checks, and application screening.

• Training: Required Safe Sanctuary training is provided and updated regularly for staff and volunteers, covering abuse prevention, recognizing signs of abuse, mandatory reporting, boundaries, and appropriate supervision.

• Two-adult rule: Activities involving minors include at least two screened adults present. If one-on-one pastoral care is necessary, it will occur in a visible, observable setting and be documented.

• Supervision ratios: We maintain appropriate adult-to-child ratios for all programs and events, adjusted by age group and activity type.

• Photo and media: We obtain consent before photographing or recording children or vulnerable adults and follow guidelines about how images are used and stored.

• Transportation: Drivers must be screened and authorized. Parents/guardians are notified of transportation arrangements and given opportunities to opt out.

• Reporting: Any suspicion or disclosure of abuse is reported immediately to the appropriate civil authorities and the church leadership. We comply with mandatory reporting laws.

• Confidentiality and care: We offer pastoral care and support to survivors and families while maintaining confidentiality to the extent permitted by law. Church leaders cooperate fully with investigations.

• Facilities safety: We maintain safe facilities, including secure check-in/check-out for children’s programs and clear procedures for emergency response.

• Record keeping: All incidents, background checks, training records, and relevant communications are securely maintained.

How to raise a concern

• If you suspect abuse or see behavior that feels unsafe, notify a staff member immediately.

• For emergencies or immediate danger, call 911.

• Report concerns to the church Safe Sanctuary coordinator or senior staff; if you are unsure who to contact, speak with the church office.

• We will treat every report with seriousness and care and will protect those making good-faith reports from retaliation.

Support for survivors

• We are committed to responding with compassion, respect, and support to those who disclose abuse.

• The church will help connect survivors and families with appropriate counseling, medical care, and legal resources while honoring their autonomy and choices.

Volunteers and parents

• We encourage parents and guardians to participate, ask questions, and be present in ministry activities.

• Volunteers are expected to follow Safe Sanctuary policies and model Christlike behavior.

Policy review

• These guidelines are reviewed regularly and updated as needed to reflect best practices and legal requirements.

Contact

• For questions, training information, or to report concerns, contact the Safe Sanctuary coordinator at the church office during business hours.

We are thankful for your partnership in keeping Higher Ground Church a place where children, youth, and vulnerable adults are loved, protected, and free to grow in faith.