All of our full time summer staff receives extensive training throughout the year in the following areas 1. Risk Management 2. Crisis Management 3. Safety Policies & Procedures 4. Zero Tolerance Policies Regarding Abuse 5. Comprehensive Sexual Abuse Awareness & Prevention 6. Proper conduct: 1. Proper conduct is communicated to staff in writing, verbally, and modeled in the lives of our leadership staff 2. Staff to Kamper conduct is stressed during staff training. 3. Specific policies regarding modesty and one-on-one meetings SUMMER STAFF All summer staff receives training in the following areas: 1. Summer Staff receive training on KAA policies and procedures prior to arrival of the campers 2. Comprehensive Sexual Abuse Awareness & Prevention 3. Certified Operator Instruction & Testing on all High Risk Activities 4. Proper conduct: 1. Proper conduct is communicated to staff in writing, verbally and modeled in the lives of our leadership staff 2. Staff to Kamper conduct is stressed during staff training. 3. Specific policies regarding modesty and one-on-one meetings provide accountability and security 5. Reporting System In addition, no less than six corporate safety teams evaluate and oversee all activities at our Kamps. Each Kamp is also staffed with a “safety officer” who provides oversight and enforcement of safety practices. KAMPER ORIENTATION To promote a positive and healthy Kamp experience, each Kamp conducts Kamper orientation talks that include the following topics: 1. Opening Day Safe & Secure Talk - In an age appropriate manner, all Kampers will be instructed on what kinds of visual, verbal, and physical conduct is appropriate and what kinds are inappropriate at Kamp. This includes staff to Kamper conduct, Kamper to Kamper conduct, and modesty & one-on-one policy. 2. Year-round Kamper contact - Godly relationships are an important part of the Kids Across America experience. We want to stay in contact with your family throughout the year in a way that respects your family and provides encouragement. We'll explain what your Kamper should expect in terms of continuing communication from Kamp. 3. Reporting System – At the beginning of every term, each Kamp will educate Kampers on the different methods available to report inappropriate conduct at Kamp. A KALEO/PARENT'S ROLE Kids Across America is committed to doing everything it can to protect children. Research supports that the best defense against child abuse is an informed and empowered child. Kaleo/Parents continue to be the primary source of protection and are encouraged to take an active role in preparing their children. Kids Across America recommends that kaleo/parents further educate themselves through the many good resources available and then have appropriate conversations with their children. Through the Kids Across America web site and e-mail correspondence, Kids Across America is committed to partner with kaleo/parents in this endeavor by providing information and education on hiring, training, and reporting practices that we use to create a positive and healthy environment for each Kamper.
