Safe Environment Program
Jerry Waynant
972-596-5505 ext. 4265
jwaynant@eseton.org
The Safe Environment Program is a program that was established for the protection and well being of everyone at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton. The Diocese of Dallas has mandated that everyone who works with children, youth, vulnerable adults and/or developmentally disabled attend Safe Environment training annually.
As a new staff member, minister, or volunteer you must pick up a Safe Environment packet from one of the parish offices, follow the instructions in it, and attend one training session.
Once cleared you must complete an annual update training (see below).
Safe Environment Training Schedule for NEW Staff or Volunteers
(* Scroll down for Annual/Update Training*)
The Safe Environment Program requires that all New staff or volunteers who work with minors or with vulnerable adults participate in the “FAMILY OF FAITH “ training. This training will consist of viewing a video and a presentation on recognizing, responding and reporting abuse. This training helps all of us maintain a high level of awareness and vigilance regarding the risks that may occur in our parish.
This training will satisfy the “annual” training requirement for the year.
All training will be held at John Paul II High School, located at the northeast corner of Coit Road and Plano Parkway. Enter thru the main entrance, just to the left of the flag poles. You will need to ring the buzzer to enter.
Watch the website and bulletin for upcoming dates and locations.
To become a CLEARED adult you must do ALL of the following:
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Complete Seton's yellow Screening Form
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Read Safe Environment Booklet
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Return completed Screening Form.
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Set up and complete an Interview. Call Ministry for an appointment.
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Return all the above in the large white Personal and Confidential Envelope.
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Attend one of the Training Sessions listed above.
If you have volunteered for St Elizabeth Ann Seton in the past, and previously completed the above items, you need only complete an updated Safe Environment training.
Annual/Updated Training
Must be completed each year.
- Go to www.cathdal.org
- Click on Safe Environment
- On left hand side, click on Update Training
- Complete any one (1) of the programs listed.
We will accept new and annual training from other parishes in the Diocese as long as documentation is provided. Occasionally we also offer special presentations that will also count toward annual/updated training. Watch the bulletin and website for these opportunities.
The Need for a Safe Environment Program
Abuse strikes every age and social background. Often it occurs in settings where children or youth completely trust adults - in homes, schools, camps, athletic and park programs, and most sadly, the Church.
Abuse can happen anywhere. We have a profound moral obligation to reduce the possibility of abuse ever occurring here at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton.
In order to protect and safeguard the 2,400+ children and youth of our parish, the Community of St. Elizabeth Ann Seton has taken positive steps to provide a safer and more secure environment for our children.
What does this Program Mean to You?
Programs such as these are a normal part of our school systems. Teachers in the PISD and the Diocese of Dallas are screened on a regular basis prior to working with children. St. Elizabeth Ann Seton has initiated a program to reduce the risk and liability of child abuse.
All screening will remain confidential and the final decision whether or not you, as an applicant, will be accepted to work with our youth and/or children shall be based on information from the criminal background history, interview process and reference checks.
All volunteers will be trained to recognize possible signs of child abuse, and how to report potential abuse.
Please remember that this process is for the protection of everyone in our parish. We need your help in ensuring their safety.
In addition, this process will protect church staff and volunteer workers from potential allegations of abuse.
We need your support and commitment to this program.
For more information please feel free to call:
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Bruce Baumann, Director, Youth and Children's Ministry 972-596-5505 ext 4262
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Jerry Waynant, Safe Environment Coordinator 972-596-5505 ext 4265
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Terry Wooliscroft, Business Manager 972-596-5505 ext 225
Adult Abuse Prevention
Exploitation of vulnerable adults wears many faces. So do the forces that help. Sometimes a caring neighbor sees the need and tries to help. Or a loving family member attempts to make a positive impact. Unfortunately, an increasing number of vulnerable adults go unnoticed. They may be confused, in pain, lacking strength or understanding, without power …all alone.
If you suspect that a vulnerable adult may be the victim of exploitation, abuse, or neglect, call the Texas Abuse Hotline! 1-800-252-5400
“For I, the Lord, love what is right, I hate robbery and injustice; I will give them (victims) their recompense faithfully, a lasting covenant I will make with them.” (Isaiah 61:8)