Join a Safeguarding Cohort

Creating Safe, Accountable Faith Communities

 
 

WHAT IS THE SAFEGUARDING INITIATIVE COHORT?

GRACE's Safeguarding Initiative Cohort fosters a collaborative, supportive environment for churches committed to protecting the vulnerable. By joining a cohort, churches gain shared learning experiences, collective insights, and cost-effective access to safeguarding resources that cultivate a culture of accountability and safety.


WHY JOIN A COHORT?

Joining a Safeguarding Initiative Cohort offers numerous advantages for churches committed to creating safe environments. Here are some key reasons to participate:

  • Collective Learning: Collaborate with other churches facing similar challenges, sharing insights and strategies that enhance learning and implementation of safeguarding practices.

  • Cost Savings: By participating in joint seminars and utilizing shared resources, churches can reduce costs associated with training and policy development.

  • Expert Guidance: Access to GRACE’s specialized knowledge and tools helps ensure effective policy development and training tailored to your church's unique context.

  • Supportive Community: Build relationships with other churches in your area or denomination, fostering accountability and a culture of safety that extends beyond individual congregations.

  • Comprehensive Resources: Gain access to GRACE’s tools and frameworks, ensuring that your safeguarding practices align with best practices in the field.

  • Empowerment of Leaders: Equip your church leaders and volunteers with essential skills and knowledge, empowering them to foster a proactive approach to safeguarding and abuse prevention.

Joining a cohort not only enhances your church's safeguarding capabilities but also contributes to the broader mission of creating safer and healthier faith communities.


COHORT FEATURES

  • Joint Seminars & Training: Collaborative seminars to guide leaders on safeguarding best practices.

    • Policy Development: Create and enhance policies with GRACE’s support.

    • Leadership Training: Equip leaders with practical tools for fostering protection.

  • Safeguarding Training for the Whole Congregation: Practical safety education for adults and age-appropriate safety talks for youth.

  • Building Safety Consultation: Direct support to enhance ministry spaces.

  • Ongoing GRACE Support: Access ongoing guidance on safeguarding issues and discounts on GRACE’s response services.

  • Cohort Support: Build collaborative relationships with other leaders and communities within the cohort, gaining inspiration, resources, and creative solutions for implementing safeguarding measures effectively.

HOW CAN I JOIN A COHORT?

Building or joining a cohort provides your church with a supportive network to strengthen safeguarding practices. Here’s how to get started:

  1. Identify Commonalities: Look for churches with similar theological backgrounds (same denomination or faith tradition) or those in nearby geographic regions (e.g., Greater Houston, rural Pennsylvania).

  2. Reach Out to GRACE: Contact GRACE for guidance on cohort formation. GRACE can help connect you with churches also interested in a cohort and offer initial resources to support the process.

  3. Build Relationships: Meet with potential cohort members to discuss common safeguarding goals, challenges, and the commitment needed to support one another.

  4. Define Goals and Structure: With GRACE’s guidance, you will work together outlining cohort goals, such as policy development, safeguarding training, or resource sharing. Establish a structure for regular check-ins, joint seminars, or policy workshops.

  5. Maintain Accountability and Support: Plan regular cohort meetings to review progress, discuss challenges, and offer support. This ongoing collaboration helps each church stay accountable to safeguarding goals.

JOIN A SAFEGUARDING COHORT TODAY

Please contact us at safeguarding@netgrace.org for any additional instructions.