We are a Safe Sanctuaries congregation and are committed to the physical and emotional safety and well-being of all our children. Our goal is that every child will see the love of Jesus in each person who leads them in study and worship.

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Before working with children or youth at SIUMC, our staff and volunteers commit to a background check and complete our Safe Sanctuaries training. Highlights of our Safe Sanctuary guidelines are as follows:

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• Volunteers must be an active member of the congregation for 6 months before volunteering with children, youth or at-risk adults.

• SIUMC follows the “two adult” rule which requires two adults be present to care for children who are in or below 5th grade.

• For youth 6th grade and above, one adult worker must be present, with an additional adult worker available to come in and out of the ministry space at unscheduled times.

• Windows are present in doors, or doors remain open, where children and youth are present.

• Classrooms and nursery spaces keep an “open door” policy and can be visited at any time by church staff, parents and workers.

• Background checks are completed on staff and volunteers and are updated on a regular basis.

• Additional guidelines apply for any off-site or overnight outings.

• SIUMC staff and volunteers fall under a “mandatory reporting” policy and any allegations of abuse must be reported to SIUMC’s Child Protection Committee.

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Any questions regarding our Safe Sanctuary policy can be referred to Michelle Johnson, Director of Education.