Leaving the church: Safe Spaces Only

Before our next episode of personal stories of leaving churches, we’ve been talking off record about what makes a space “Safe?”

One of the many ways I have seen spaces become UNSAFE is through a lack of what we’d call standard operating procedures. These are identified, clarified, and clearly communicated to everyone in the space as dealbreakers if violated. For many churches, their ministries, nonprofits, and other endeavors, these kinds of procedures are a nice after thought or maybe just dialed in to check off a box instead of being a meaningful and life-forming Ministry Ethos for everyone involved.

WHERE SHOULD I VOLUNTEER?

Here are some questions to ask before signing up:

MISSION ALIGNMENT

Nonprofits all have a mission statement, but do you really know how they live it out? Ask questions about the process and pay attention to the ways in which volunteers are encouraged in achieving that mission through values and daily operations.

SCREENING

Is there an application process? Do they interview volunteers or just take warm bodies? Do you know if anyone has submitted to criminal background checks or other vetting process especially when working with kids? How will you feel safe with others? If they didn’t screen or interview you, do you think they do for others?

TRAINING

Were you adequately trained and given information on the tasks you will do and do you see how it fits into the overall programs and mission of the org? Is training a priority for the org or treated as a nice to have but not essential? Do you feel comfortable when you’re there like you know where to go and what to do without prompting?

SAFETY

Does the organization make you feel safe at all times? Do you know what to do in case of an emergency? Has anyone ever caused you concern and you knew exactly what to do and felt supported by staff and other volunteers? This relates to adequate training too.

INTEGRITY

Is the organization reputable? Do they have financial information available? Do they have meetings or other opportunities to ask questions or to raise any concerns? Do you know who to go to with issues you may want to address? Have you ever asked a hard or complex question and were you satisfied with the answer and the whole experience of asking?

MINISTRY

Most nonprofits rely heavily on volunteers and can accomplish a lot because of the generosity of those who donate their time and effort and skills. Ministries that do not make these values true priorities for their volunteers set up unsafe environments and put everyone at risk. Is this organization or church truly Ministry Minded or is it serving a need with no long term responsibility?

What other questions come to mind to help you feel more SAFE and welcomed? We’d love to hear from you!

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