Youth Protection — Quick-Start Checklist

Safety best practices for any youth gathering. From Nieto Ministries. (This is general guidance, not legal advice — follow your local mandated-reporter laws.)

Before you open

• ☐ Every adult who serves is screened: application, references you actually call, interview, and a criminal background check.
• ☐ Background checks are re-run on a schedule (commonly every 2–3 years).
• ☐ A signed code of conduct for all leaders and volunteers.
• ☐ Written waivers / emergency contacts collected for participants.
• ☐ A basic first-aid kit and a known emergency plan.

During every event

• ☐ Two-adult rule: at least two screened adults present and visible at all times.
• ☐ No one-on-one isolation — private conversations happen in open, observable spaces.
• ☐ Clear coverage assigned: door, floor, exits.
• ☐ No blind spots — bathrooms, storage, parking lots are watched.
• ☐ A healthy adult-to-youth ratio maintained.

Communication & boundaries

• ☐ Adult-to-minor messaging is transparent and group-based — no private, unmonitored DMs.
• ☐ Photos/social posts are appropriate and consented.
• ☐ Leaders are mentors, not peers.

If you suspect abuse

• ☐ Notice, respond with care, and report — you are not asked to investigate.
• ☐ Know your local mandated-reporter law and reporting chain before you need it.
• ☐ On disclosure: stay calm, listen, never promise secrecy, report promptly, document facts.