Safeguarding

Why Do We Employ Safeguarding?
At Houston's First, we're committed to being a culture that cares. When people hear the term "safeguarding," they may wonder why a church would place such a high priority on this process.

The reason is simply that our church family wants to protect our most vulnerable members. That means taking every precaution to ensure the right adults, and teens 7th grade and up, are serving in environments with children, youth, and adults with special needs. The process may seem intensive, but that should bring relief, not concern. While anyone can become a PATHMAKER, each one is carefully screened to ensure they are well-suited to serve in these areas, allowing for children, youth, and other vulnerable populations to worship, grow in their faith, and build community in safe environments.

Here is why this matters:

  • An estimated ONE in 10 children will be a victim of sexual abuse before their 18th birthday.
  • There are an estimated 42 million adult survivors of sexual abuse living in the US today.
  • 90% of child sexual abuse victims are harmed by someone they know and trust.
  • More than 70% of children who are sexually abused are abused by a peer.

Every Safeguarding Approved PATHMAKER (and staff member) is expected to uphold our Safeguarding policies by promoting accountability, modeling appropriate conduct, maintaining healthy boundaries, and promptly reporting any concerns that could affect the well-being of those in our ministries. 

Safeguarding Requirements
Church Membership and six months of active involvement at Houston’s First are requirements for all potential Safeguarding volunteers. Six months of active involvement at HFBC is usually accomplished through regular participation and attendance in a Life Bible Study. Some additional examples include Equip Classes, Men's & Women's events, or other service opportunities.

Safeguarding Prerequisites:
HFBC Church Membership
6 months of active involvement

Screening Steps:
1. Safeguarding Application
2. Ministry Safe Standard Sexual Abuse Prevention Training
3. References
4. Interview
5. Background Check

Safeguarding Opportunities
Once you are Safeguarding Approved, there are so many ways to get involved across all of our campuses. From children's ministry to production to guest experience, there is a place for you!

Some roles work directly with our children, youth, or vulnerable adults, so they require Safeguarding Approval first. Some of these roles include:

  • Preschool volunteer
  • First Friends leader
  • Thru The Roof team member
  • The HUB volunteer
  • LBS teacher for NextGen
  • Night to Shine buddy
  • Rush Week leader
  • Mission trip leader (serving with kids)
  • Participant
  • And more!

If you are ready to jump in right away, roles like these do not require Safeguarding Approval:

  • Parking lot team member
  • Guest Experience Team member
  • Adult life Bible study leader

Find your place to serve here!