Safety
Safety is every Boys & Girls Club’s #1 priority. Boys & Girls Club of Shinnecock Nation works to provide a safe, fun environment for all of our members. We adherence to strict policies and guidelines within our club facility and staffing structure to employing strategic safety partnerships and tools. Our club offers safe inclusive spaces and experiences that empower members’ learning and growth.
Safety Policies: Our club is required to have safety policies in place that protect youth, including, but not limited to, supervision, transportation, communication, and prohibition of private one-on-one contact.
Mandatory Background Checks: Mandatory background checks are required every year for every staff member and board member at our Club. In addition, criminal background checks are required for any volunteer who has direct contact with children. All potential employees and volunteers are run through the National Sex Offender Registry.
Required Immediate Reporting: Club staff and volunteers are all mandated reporters. Club staff members are required to report any critical incident/safety concern to local authorities immediately. They are also required to report any critical incident to Boys & Girls Clubs of America within 24 hours.
Mandatory Annual Safety Assessments: Every Boys & Girls Club is required to complete an online safety assessment each year. If any concerns arise, Boys & Girls Clubs of America will take action to make recommendations, require changes or to provide additional support.
Safety Trainings: Ongoing training and supervision of staff are critical. Club staff participates in a wide variety of child safety training conducted through seminars, conferences, and webinars.
Board Led Safety Committee: Every Boys & Girls Club has a dedicated Child Safety Committee to help guide safety efforts and policies. This committee provides input and guidance on local policies and safety strategies, leads safety assessments, and makes recommendations for safety improvement to remain in compliance with Boys & Girls Club of America’s membership requirements and safety protocols.
State, Local, and Tribal Laws: Boys & Girls Clubs are required to comply with federal, state, local, and tribal safety laws, including those impacting facilities and vehicles.