Safety Plan

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At Hope Rising, the safety and well-being of every participant is our highest priority. All programs, activities, mentoring opportunities, and travel experiences are designed with clear safeguards to provide a secure, supportive environment for youth, volunteers, and staff.

1. Supervision Standards

Hope Rising strives to provide two approved adult leaders whenever possible. In some activities, meetings, transportation needs, or mentoring settings, one approved adult leader may supervise youth participants when appropriate safeguards are in place.

Leaders will never be alone with a single youth in a private or isolated setting.

When one adult is present:

• Interactions will occur in open, visible, and public settings whenever possible.

• Parents, guardians, or designated contacts will be informed of schedules when appropriate.

• Staff or leadership will have access to activity details and communication plans.

• One-on-one situations will be avoided whenever possible. If unavoidable briefly for safety or support, the interaction will remain observable and documented.

All adult leaders and volunteers must complete:

• Background screening when required

• Safety and conduct training

• Organization orientation

2. Group & Buddy Safety

Youth participants may be paired with a designated buddy during activities, travel, or larger events when appropriate.

Buddies are encouraged to:

• Stay aware of one another during outings and transitions

• Notify leaders if assistance is needed

• Help promote inclusion and accountability

Headcounts or attendance checks will be conducted regularly.

3. Verified Safety of Activities

All activities will be reviewed for safety, age-appropriateness, and supervision needs.

Leaders will:

• Assess potential risks before each activity

• Provide clear instructions and expectations

• Ensure proper equipment and supervision are in place

• Maintain access to emergency contacts and basic first-aid supplies when appropriate

4. Safe Travel Practices

All travel arrangements will be planned and reviewed in advance.

When applicable:

• Itineraries and schedules will be shared with parents, guardians, or designated contacts

• Youth will remain with the group or maintain approved communication/location sharing procedures

• Transportation plans will prioritize safety and accountability

5. Communication & Check-In Procedures

Leaders will maintain appropriate communication with participants and, when applicable, parents or guardians.

For longer activities or travel experiences:

• Check-in points will be established

• Emergency contacts and medical information will be accessible to designated leaders

• Leadership may monitor schedules and communication plans

6. Emergency & Backup Plans

Each activity or trip will include contingency planning for:

• Weather concerns

• Transportation issues

• Safety or security risks

• Medical concerns

Leaders will be trained on emergency procedures, including:

• First-aid response

• Evacuation or shelter plans

• Communication with guardians and authorities when needed

7. Code of Conduct

All participants and leaders will follow a respectful behavior policy that promotes:

• Kindness and inclusion

• Appropriate language and actions

• Respect for personal boundaries

• Safe and responsible decision-making

Any safety concerns, boundary violations, or inappropriate behavior will be addressed promptly and seriously.