Proactive Church Safety: A Leader's Blueprint

Proactive Church Safety: A Leader's Blueprint

"Please note that the information shared in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only. Nothing discussed should be interpreted as specific legal advice or as creating an attorney-client relationship. If you have questions about your organization or situation, we encourage you to connect with your own local counsel.” Thank you so much for listening to episode 2 of Season 3: Proactive Church Safety: A Leader's Blueprint. You can find an episode summary, takeaways, below! Click here to watch the episode! [https://vimeo.com/1179044932?share=copy&fl=sv&fe=ci] Summary: In this episode of Let's Talk Solutions, Hunter Pettis hosts Raquel Gosling George, a Licensing Specialist at Adventist Risk Management, Inc. and a dedicated safety officer, to explore how churches can proactively develop safety programs that uphold their mission and protect their congregation. Listen as Raquel shares practical insights, success stories, and actionable steps to effectively embed safety into church culture. Key Takeaways: * Proactive risk management is essential for long-term church safety. * Safety is an act of love and a form of spiritual stewardship. * Transitioning from reactive to proactive risk management is critical. * Strategies for developing an emergency response team should include all church ministries. * Quarterly safety drills (fire, active shooter, severe weather, etc.) help maintain momentum and prevent stagnation. * Utilizing relevant resources, tools, and training empowers and equips volunteers. * Partnership between pastors and safety officers strengthens church safety. Episode Resources: Videos: * School Security Best Practices [https://youtu.be/esMy2LTgV08?si=BDWJjtzStj0xBOb9] * Child Protection and Emergency Preparedness [https://youtu.be/bsEiAIeUQdg?si=VPl8j-0366wV2GUy] Info Sheets: * Creating an Emergency Response Team [https://adventistrisk.org/getmedia/5184ef7c-d60b-4f59-b6f0-56e68542eea8/IFS-Creating-an-EmergencyResponseTeam-NADEN.pdf?ext=.pdf ] * Sterling Volunteers for Background Checks [https://sterlingvolunteers.com/] Forms: * Volunteer Reference Interview Form [Volunteer Reference Interview Form]: (password: pbmpi6k1) * Ministry Volunteer Information Form [Ministry Volunteer Information Form]: (password: cumvbc9j) Link: * Adventist Screen Verification [Adventist Screen Verification] Solutions Articles: * 4-Step Screening Process [https://adventistrisk.org/en-us/safety-resources/solutions-newsletter/2021/march/nadeng-4-step-screening-process ] * Effective Training for Pathfinder Leaders [https://adventistrisk.org/en-US/Safety-Resources/Solutions-Newsletter/2022/August/NADENG-Effective-Training-for-Pathfinder-Leaders ] Connect with us! Podcast Page [https://podcastpage/] Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/adventistrisk/] Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/adventistrisk/] Linkedin [https://www.linkedin.com/in/arm-c-85548116a] AdventistRisk.org [https://adventistrisk.org/] Email: customercare@adventistrisk.org

Vital Volunteers: Answering the Call

"Please note that the information shared in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only. Nothing discussed should be interpreted as specific legal advice or as creating an attorney-client relationship. If you have questions about your organization or situation, we encourage you to connect with your own local counsel.” Thank you so much for listening to the first episode of Season 3: Vital Volunteers: Answering the Call! You can find an episode summary, takeaways, below! Click here to watch the episode! [https://vimeo.com/1160297112?share=copy&fl=sv&fe=ci] Summary: In this episode of Let's Talk Solutions, host Hunter Pettis discusses the vital role of volunteers in church ministries with Joni Dreher, Claims Manager from Adventist Risk Management, Inc. Joni Dreher shares her experiences and insights on how to effectively engage volunteers, manage risks, and foster a safe environment for church activities. Their conversation also, emphasizes the need for effective communication, the challenges faced by volunteers, and the spiritual significance of volunteering. Listeners are encouraged to take part in serving at their local church and consider the magnitude of their contributions no matter how small. Key Takeaways: * The work of volunteers is crucial for church ministries. * Proactive risk management is essential for church safety. * Effective communication helps engage church members around safety. * Understanding the needs of the church is key to effective volunteering. * Safety officers play a vital role in church security. * Every small act of service contributes to the churches greater mission. * Witnessing through service is a powerful form of ministry. Episode Resources: Info Sheets: * Checking Volunteer References: Dos and Don’ts [Checking Volunteer References: Dos and Don’ts ] * The Safety Officers Responsibilities [The Safety Officers Responsibilities] * Securing the Church Building [Securing the Church Building ] * Active Shooter Safety Kit [Active Shooter Safety Kit ] * Pathfinder Safety Guide [Pathfinder Safety Guide ] * Financial Internal Controls [Financial Internal Controls] Forms: * Volunteer Reference Interview Form [Volunteer Reference Interview Form]: (password: pbmpi6k1) * Ministry Volunteer Information Form [Ministry Volunteer Information Form]: (password: cumvbc9j) Link: * Adventist Screen Verification [Adventist Screen Verification] Solutions Articles: * One Church Protected: Stronger in Safety, Together in Mission [One Church Protected: Stronger in Safety, Together in Mission] * Taking Care of Our Facilities: An Interview with Risk Control Specialist Brian Schwab [Taking Care of Our Facilities: An Interview with Risk Control Specialist Brian Schwab] * Beyond the Title: The Ministry of a Safety Officer [Beyond the Title: The Ministry of a Safety Officer] * I’m New—What Do I Do? [I’m New—What Do I Do?] Connect with us! Podcast Page [https://podcastpage/] Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/adventistrisk/] Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/adventistrisk/] Linkedin [https://www.linkedin.com/in/arm-c-85548116a] AdventistRisk.org [https://adventistrisk.org/] Email: customercare@adventistrisk.org

Protecting Your Digital Identity

Thank you so much for listening to episode 5 of Season 2: Protecting Your Digital Identity! You can find an episode summary, takeaways, below! Summary: In this episode of Let's Talk Solutions, host Hunter Pettis engages with cybersecurity experts, Darla Avendano, AAI, AU, CYB, Ernest Staats, MSIA, (CISSP)®, CEH, MCSE and Tony Vargas, VP, CIO, CISO, DPO to discuss the critical importance of digital safety for Adventist organizations and members. Our conversation covers foundational definitions of cybersecurity, the threats posed by bad actors, and the value of protecting personal information. Our share practical advice on fortifying digital identities, the impact of cyber-attacks on small church organizations, and the importance of safeguarding children’s online presence. This episode concludes with actionable steps listeners can take to enhance their cybersecurity practices and the significance of preparation in navigating digital risks. "Please note that the information shared in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only. Nothing discussed should be interpreted as specific legal advice or as creating an attorney-client relationship. If you have questions about your organization or situation, we encourage you to connect with your own local counsel.” Key Takeaways: 1. Cybersecurity is essential for protecting our digital identities. 2. Bad actors use various tactics to steal information. 3. Information is highly valuable and targeted by cybercriminals. 4. Using unique passwords for different accounts is crucial. 5. Multi-factor authentication adds an extra layer of security. 6. Small organizations are not immune to cyber threats. 7. Children's online safety is a growing concern. 8. Verification of information is key to preventing scams. 9. Regularly updating and patching devices is necessary for security. 10. Preparation and faith go hand in hand in managing risks. Episode Resources: Info Sheets: 1. Cybersecurity [https://Cybersecurity] 2. Cyber Liability [https://CyberLiability] 3. Consent Form for Working with Children Online [https://ConsentFormforWorkingwithChildrenOnline] password: xfnfztz4 4. Personal Physical Security Traveling Tips [Information Sentinel] [https://PersonalPhysicalSecurityTravelingTips[InformationSentinel]] password: vfame75p "Please note that the above resource is provided by Information Sentinel." 5. How To Spot & Avoid Scams [Information Sentinel] [https://HowToSpot&AvoidScams[InformationSentinel]] password: s79hbvte "Please note that the above resource is provided by Information Sentinel." Solutions Articles: 1. Cybersecurity: What to expect in 2025 [https://adventistrisk.org/en-US/Safety-Resources/Solutions-Newsletter/2025/February/Cybersecurity-What-to-Expect-in-2025] 2. Cybersecurity Best Practices [https://adventistrisk.org/en-US/Safety-Resources/Solutions-Newsletter/2025/February/Cybersecurity-Best-Practices] 3. Identifying Your Cyber Risk and Preventing and Cyber-Attacks [https://adventistrisk.org/en-US/Safety-Resources/Solutions-Newsletter/2019/October/NAD-Identifying-Your-Cyber-Risk-and-Preventing-Cyb] 4. Cybersecurity Myths DEBUNKED [https://adventistrisk.org/en-US/Safety-Resources/Solutions-Newsletter/2017/February/Cybersecurity-Myths-DEBUNKED] 5. Cybersecurity Q&A: When to Upgrade and How to Combat Hackers [https://adventistrisk.org/en-US/Safety-Resources/Solutions-Newsletter/2016/August/Cybersecurity-Q-A-When-to-Upgrade-and-How-to-Comb] Connect with us! Podcast Page [https://podcastpage/] Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/adventistrisk/] Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/adventistrisk/] Linkedin [https://www.linkedin.com/in/arm-c-85548116a] AdventistRisk.org [https://adventistrisk.org/] Email: info@adventistrisk.org

A Stewardship Approach to Church Liability

Thank you so much for listening to episode 4 of Season 2: A Stewardship Approach to Church Liability! You can find an episode summary, takeaways, below! Summary: In this episode of Let’s Talk Solutions, host Hunter Pettis and guests Ashley Frazier-Morrison, Esquire, MPA and Leander Tomazeli, AINS, AIS explore the various aspects of liability, including the responsibilities of churches regarding property maintenance, the role of volunteers, the implications of vacant versus unoccupied properties, and playground safety. Join us for this engaging conversation as our team emphasizes that liability is not just a legal issue but a stewardship issue, and encourages church leaders to prioritize risk management and safety in their ministries. "Please note that the information shared in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only. Nothing discussed should be interpreted as specific legal advice or as creating an attorney-client relationship. If you have questions about your organization or situation, we encourage you to connect with your own local counsel.” Key Takeaways: 1. Liability is a stewardship issue, not just a legal one. 2. Churches must manage risks to protect their members. 3. Good intentions do not shield churches from liability. 4. Proper documentation is crucial in liability claims. 5. Volunteers should be placed in roles that match their skills. 6. Vacant properties pose significant liability risks. 7. Clear agreements with outside organizations are essential. 8. Regular maintenance of church property is a must. 9. Risk management tools help mitigate potential liabilities. 10. Start with small steps towards better risk management. Episode Resources: Sample-Church Rental Agreement [https://Sample-ChurchRentalAgreement] Maintaining Closed Buildings [https://maintainingclosedbuildings/] PDF Solutions Article: Signing Contracts [https://adventistrisk.org/en-US/Safety-Resources/Solutions-Newsletter/2022/December/NADENG-Signing-Contracts] Solutions Article: How to Maintain a “Closed” Building [https://HowtoMaintaina“Closed”Building] Solutions Article: Taking Care of Our Facilities: An Interview with Risk Control Specialist Brian Schwab [https://TakingCareofOurFacilities:AnInterviewwithRiskControlSpecialistBrianSchwab] Solutions Article: You Need To Know About Renting Your Church [https://YouNeedToKnowAboutRentingYourChurch] Maintaining Closed Buildings [https://MaintainingClosedBuildings] PDF Solutions Article: Let the Pros Handle It [https://LettheProsHandleIt] Solutions Article: The Price You DON'T Pay by Maintaining Buildings [https://ThePriceYouDON'TPaybyMaintainingBuildings] Solutions Article: The Church Work Bee [https://TheChurchWorkBee] Connect with us! Podcast Page [https://podcastpage/] Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/adventistrisk/] Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/adventistrisk/] Linkedin [https://www.linkedin.com/in/arm-c-85548116a] AdventistRisk.org [https://adventistrisk.org/] Email: info@adventistrisk.org

The Importance of Camp Safety

Thank you so much for listening to episode 3 of Season 2: The Importance of Camp Safety! You can find an episode summary, takeaways, below! Summary: In this episode of Let's Talk Solutions, host Hunter Pettis and Pastor Tracy Wood discuss the significance of camp ministry within the Seventh-day Adventist Church. They explore the profound impact of camp experiences on youth, emphasizing the importance of safety and preparedness in creating a nurturing environment. Their conversation highlights the spiritual growth that occurs at camps, the challenges faced in ensuring safety, and the vital role of volunteers and staff in fostering a culture of safety. They hope to encourage their listeners to prioritize getting kids to camp for transformative experiences that can shape their faith and lives. Key Takeaways: 1. Safety is paramount in camp ministry, ensuring kids return home healthy. 2. Camps provide sacred spaces for kids to grow spiritually and can lead to lifelong decisions for Christ. 3. Camp staff undergo rigorous training to ensure safety and preparedness. 4. Building a culture of safety is essential for camp success. 5. Volunteers play a crucial role in supporting camp safety initiatives. 6. Networking with experienced camp staff can enhance camp ministry. 7. Camps create lifelong memories and decisions for youth. 8. Proper training and certifications are essential for camp staff. 9. Accreditation ensures camps meet safety standards. 10. Engaging with camp alumni can strengthen camp programs. Resources ARM's Camp Safety Page [https://adventistrisk.org/en-US/Safety-Resources/Topics/Club-MInistries] Risk Training Center: Risk Management for Club Ministries [https://adventistrisk.org/en-US/Safety-Resources/Risk-Training-Center] Campsite Inspector Form [https://adventistrisk.org/en-US/Safety-Resources/Topics/Club-MInistries?ministry=camp] Solution Article: Is It Safe to Camp Here? [https://adventistrisk.org/en-US/Safety-Resources/Solutions-Newsletter/2022/September/NADENG-Is-It-Safe-to-Camp-Here] Solutions Article: Let the Pros Handle It [https://adventistrisk.org/en-US/Safety-Resources/Solutions-Newsletter/2022/April/NADENG-Let-the-Pros-Handle-It] Connect with us! Podcast Page [https://podcastpage/] Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/adventistrisk/] Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/adventistrisk/] Linkedin [https://www.linkedin.com/in/arm-c-85548116a] AdventistRisk.org [https://adventistrisk.org/] Email: info@adventistrisk.org