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Knights of Columbus Safe Environment Program
- REPORT SUSPECTED ABUSE TO LAW ENFORCEMENT
- NOTIFY LOCAL DIOCESE OF SUSPECTED ABUSE
- NOTIFY KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS OF SUSPECTED ABUSE AT 1-844-KOFC-SAFE (1-844-563-2723)
Rev. August 2017
Below are the answers to 30 of the most frequently asked questions about the Knights of Columbus Safe Environment Program.
A printable PDF document of these questions and answers may be accessed by clicking on this link.
Le programme pour un environment sécuritaire des Chevaliers de Colomb: Foire Aux Questions
El programa por un Ambiente Seguro de los Caballeros de Colón: Preguntas Frecuentes
1. What is the Knights of Columbus Safe Environment Program?
- The Knights of Columbus has no higher priority than the safety and well-being of the young people served through its programs and activities.
- The Knights of Columbus Safe Environment Program is designed to protect young people served through Knights of Columbus programs and activities, including the Columbian Squires Program, from all forms of abuse.
- Councils participating in official Supreme Council programs and activities are required to comply with all policies and procedures of the Knights of Columbus Safe Environment Program.
- Knights of Columbus Safe Environment Program requirements are in addition to all of the safe environment/youth protection requirements established by local dioceses and parishes.
2. Why does the Knights of Columbus maintain a safe environment program?
- As the world's largest Catholic fraternal service organization, the Knights of Columbus has a responsibility to maintain its own safe environment program across all of the dioceses in which it is active around the world. This means that the Knights of Columbus has a duty to ensure compliance with its own safe environment program policies and procedures, including training and background check requirements.
- The Knights of Columbus maintains the highest standards for the protection of young people across all of its programs and activities within all dioceses in which the Knights of Columbus is active.
- The program helps assure families, dioceses and communities that the Knights of Columbus has done everything within its power to safeguard the young people served through its programs and activities.
- The program helps protect the good name and reputation of the Knights of Columbus.
3. Who administers the Knights of Columbus Safe Environment Program? Who may I call with questions and concerns about the Knights of Columbus Safe Environment Program?
- The Knights of Columbus Safe Environment Program is administered by the Fraternal Services Department of the Knights of Columbus in partnership with Praesidium, an international leader in youth protection.
- All inquiries regarding the program should be directed to the Knights of Columbus Safe Environment Program Line at 203-800-4940 or youthleader@kofc.org
4. What are the essential components of the Knights of Columbus Safe Environment Program?
- The Knights of Columbus Safe Environment Program consists of three key components.
- The first component is Praesidium’s Armatus© child abuse awareness and prevention training.
- This training includes three required training modules for members serving in youth leader and officer roles: “Meet Sam,” which addresses the issue of sexual abuse awareness; “Duty to Report,” which presents legal reporting obligations; and “Know Your Policies,” which covers the Knights of Columbus Safe Environment Program policies and procedures.
- These training modules cover best practices for child abuse prevention and detection.
- The second component is a thorough youth leader screening process, which includes mandatory background checks.
- The following youth leader positions require a background check: state Squires chairman, state youth director, youth director, Columbian Squires chairman, Squires chief counselor and Squires committee counselor.
- The third component is a robust reporting requirement.
- All members of the Knights of Columbus have an obligation to report any and all issues relating to youth protection and safe environments to local law enforcement if they have a reasonable basis to believe that there may be abuse taking place.
- All members serving in Board-designated youth leader or officer roles (state deputies, grand knights, faithful navigators, state Squires chairmen, state youth directors, youth directors, Columbian Squires chairmen, Squires chief counselors and Squires committee counselors) are mandatory reporters under the policies and procedures of the Knights of Columbus Safe Environment Program.
- Mandatory reporters are obligated under the policies and procedures of the Knights of Columbus Safe Environment Program to report suspected abuse to law enforcement if they have a reasonable basis to believe that abuse is taking place.
- The policies and procedures of the Knights of Columbus Safe Environment Program advise that, depending on particular facts and circumstances of a given case, members in designated youth leadership positions notify local pastors and diocesan safe environment directors of potential or actual misconduct.
5. How can someone report a violation of the policies and procedures of the Knights of Columbus Safe Environment Program, or suspected abuse, to the Knights of Columbus?
- Policy and procedure violations and suspected abuse should be reported to the Knights of Columbus Safe Environment Hotline at 1-844-563-2723.
6. In what languages is the Knights of Columbus Safe Environment Program available?
- The Knights of Columbus Safe Environment Program is currently available in English, French and Spanish.
7. Who is Praesidium?
- Praesidium is an international leader in abuse risk management based in Arlington, Texas, which has helped thousands of organizations protect those in their care from abuse.
- Praesidium was started more than three decades ago in response to requests from youth-serving organizations.
- Praesidium has more than 30 years of research and experience in working with more than 4,000 youth- and vulnerable adult-serving organizations. Praesidium knows who is at risk, which types of programs and activities have higher risks, and where and under what circumstances incidents and false allegations are most likely to occur.
- Praesidium researched and developed the “Protecting God’s Children” video used widely throughout the dioceses of the United States.
- To find out more information, you may visit Praesidium’s website: http://website.praesidiuminc.com/
8. Why has the Knights of Columbus decided to partner with Praesidium?
- After more than a year of careful study, review and analysis, as well as a competitive bid process, the Board of Directors of the Knights of Columbus elected to partner with Praesidium to provide guidance on how to enhance the Order’s existing safe environment program.
- Praesidium enjoys an outstanding international reputation for its expertise in assisting large youth-serving organizations to maintain the highest standards for the protection of young people and for the comprehensive scope of its products and services.
9. Who must comply with the policies and procedures of the Knights of Columbus Safe Environment Program?
- Every person serving in a Knights of Columbus sponsored youth program or activity is required to comply with the program.
- Councils participating in official Supreme Council programs and activities are required to comply with all policies and procedures of the Knights of Columbus Safe Environment Program.
10. What about officers and fraternal leaders who directly or indirectly serve young people through Knights of Columbus programs and activities? Do they require special training and background checks?
- Yes. Members holding certain Board-designated leadership positions (state deputies, grand knights, faithful navigators, state Squires chairmen, state youth directors, youth directors, Columbian Squires chairmen, Squires chief counselors and Squires committee counselors) are required to complete Praesidium’s Armatus© youth protection training.
- In addition, members in designated youth leadership positions (state Squires chairmen, state youth directors, youth directors, Columbian Squires chairmen, Squires chief counselors and Squires committee counselors) are required to undergo a background check.
11. Which youth leaders are required to complete Praesidium’s Armatus© youth protection training and undergo a background check?
- Members duly appointed by their grand knight or state deputy to the following Board-designated youth leadership positions are required to complete Praesidium’s Armatus© youth protection training and undergo a background check:
* State Squires chairmen
* State youth directors
* Council youth directors
* Columbian Squires chairmen
* Squires chief counselors
* Squire committee counselors
12. Which officers must complete Praesidium’s Armatus© youth protection training?
- Members holding the following Board-designated officer positions are required to complete Praesidium’s Armatus© youth protection training:
* State deputies
* Grand knights
* Faithful navigators (if their assemblies sponsor a Columbian Squires Circle)
13. Must state deputies, grand knights and faithful navigators undergo a background check?
- No, unless he also holds a Board designated Youth Leader position.
14. How do I access the online training?
- Members in designated leadership positions requiring Praesidium’s Armatus© online youth protection training will receive a username and password via email or regular mail.
- Training may also be accessed at http://www.kofc.org/safe (click “Knights of Columbus Safe Environment Program”) or http://website.praesidiuminc.com/LoginNow.
15. What should you do if you believe that you are required to complete Praesidium’s Armatus© youth protection training but have not received a username and password?
- Please submit your request for a username and password to the Knights of Columbus Safe Environment Program Line at 203-800-4940 or youthleader@kofc.org.
16. What if you are not required to complete Praesidium’s Armatus© youth protection training but are interested in doing so?
- Please express your interest in taking Praesidium’s Armatus© youth protection training by using the Knights of Columbus Safe Environment Program Line at 203-800-4940 or by writing to youthleader@kofc.org.
17. Is it okay to provide others with your username and password?
- No. Sharing your username and password with others may prevent you from receiving credit for having completed the required training.
18. Why are members in designated youth leadership positions required to complete Praesidium’s Armatus© youth protection training and a background check?
- Members serving in designated youth leadership positions are required to complete Praesidium’s Armatus© youth protection training and a background check because of their direct responsibility to protect the young people entrusted to their care by parents, the Knights of Columbus and the local community.
- The Knights of Columbus Safe Environment Program helps assure families, dioceses and communities that the Knights of Columbus has done everything within its power to safeguard the young people served through its programs and activities.
- The Knights of Columbus Safe Environment Program also helps protect members serving in designated youth leader positions against false allegations of misconduct.
19. Why are state deputies, grand knights and faithful navigators required to complete Praesidium’s Armatus© youth protection training?
- State Deputies, grand knights, and faithful navigators (if their assemblies sponsor a Columbian Squires Circle) are required to complete Praesidium’s Armatus© youth protection training to help ensure that they understand the policies and procedures that members of the Knights of Columbus are expected to follow regarding the safety and well-being of young people served through the Order’s programs and activities.
- Even if there are no council/assembly sponsored youth programs, as the top officers of their respective subordinate units, state deputies, grand knights and faithful navigators serve as the chief compliance officers for their jurisdictions, councils and assemblies in matters relating to the Knights of Columbus Safe Environment Program.
20. Will diocesan training or training completed through an employer or any other organization be accepted as a substitute for Praesidium’s Armatus© safe environment and youth protection training?
- No. Members serving in designated leadership roles must complete Praesidium’s Armatus© youth protection training covering policies and procedures particular to the Knights of Columbus Safe Environment Program.
- Knights of Columbus Safe Environment Program requirements are in addition to all safe environment and youth protection requirements established by local dioceses and parishes.
- As the world's largest Catholic fraternal service organization, the Knights of Columbus is responsible for maintaining its own Safe Environment Program across all of the dioceses in which it serves. This includes ensuring compliance with its own safe environment training and background checks.
- The Knights of Columbus Safe Environment Program training modules contain certain policies and procedures specific to the Knights of Columbus that cannot be found in any other youth protection training program.
- These policies and procedures set forth uniform youth protection standards for members of the Knights of Columbus throughout the world.
- The policies and procedures of the Knights of Columbus Safe Environment Program allow the Order to maintain direct responsibility for the compliance of Board-designated youth leaders and officers with required training and background checks to ensure the safest possible environment for the young people participating in the programs and activities of the Knights of Columbus.
21. Will prior background checks run by the diocese, a school system or any other organization be accepted as a substitute for a Knights of Columbus background check conducted by Praesidium?
- No. Only a Knights of Columbus background check administered by Praesidium will be accepted. Due to privacy laws, the Knights of Columbus may not obtain, review or otherwise rely on background checks conducted on members by another employer or organization.
- Knights of Columbus Safe Environment Program requirements are in addition to all of the safe environment and youth protection requirements established by local dioceses and parishes.
- As the world's largest Catholic fraternal service organization, the Knights of Columbus is responsible for maintaining its own Safe Environment Program across all of the dioceses in which it serves. This includes ensuring compliance with its own safe environment training and its own background checks.
- Just as other youth-serving organizations require their own background checks before individual persons are allowed to lead and/or otherwise participate in such organizations’ programs and activities, it is the policy of the Knights of Columbus to maintain its own original background check on file for all members who serve in designated youth leadership positions relating to the Order’s programs and activities.
- The policies and procedures of the Knights of Columbus Safe Environment Program allow the Order to maintain direct responsibility for the compliance of Board-designated youth leaders and officers with required training and background checks to ensure the safest possible environment for the young people participating in the programs and activities of the Knights of Columbus.
22. Must Board-designated youth leaders also comply with diocesan safe environment program requirements, including the need to complete diocesan youth protection training and diocesan background checks?
- Yes. Diocesan safe environment and youth protection requirements typically apply to any member of the Knights of Columbus who volunteers with young people in any diocesan parish or school.
- Board-designated youth leaders, as well as any other members of the Knights of Columbus who volunteer in any diocesan school or parish program or activity, must comply with any and all safe environment and youth protection training and background check requirements for the diocese and parish in which they volunteer.
- Knights of Columbus Safe Environment Program requirements are in addition to all safe environment and youth protection requirements established by local dioceses and parishes.
23. What will be done with my background check information, and what happens if there is adverse information?
- In the event that background information requires additional review, the Order’s Safe Environment Background Records Review Committee will review the information.
- Members of the Safe Environment Background Records Review Committee are bound by strict confidentiality.
24. What assurances can the Knights of Columbus give me that my personal information is safe and secure with the Knights of Columbus and Praesidium? What has the Knights of Columbus done to protect members’ personal information?
- Members' personal information is maintained confidentially and securely by Praesidum and the Knights of Columbus according to criteria set forth in each organization's strict data privacy policies. Knights of Columbus Information Technology Security personnel thoroughly reviewed the data security controls relating to the Praesidium application and have confirmed that those controls provide for the safety of member information.
- All communications between the Knights of Columbus and Praesidium occur over encrypted channels.
- All data maintained by the Knights of Columbus are secure and confidential, shared only with those who have a specified need to know (for example, the members of the Safe Environment Background Records Review Committee, who are bound by strict confidentiality).
25. Where can I find Knights of Columbus Safe Environment Program policies and procedures?
- Most policies and procedures of the Knights of Columbus Safe Environment Program are readily available for review in three publications: Knights of Columbus Safe Environment Program Grand Knight and Faithful Navigator Handbook (#5095), Knights of Columbus Safe Environment Program Youth Leader Handbook (#5096) and Knights of Columbus Safe Environment Program Squire and Parent Handbook (#5094).
- These three Knights of Columbus Safe Environment Program handbooks have been provided to state deputies, grand knights and faithful navigators (whose assemblies sponsor Columbian Squires Circles).
- These three Knights of Columbus Safe Environment Program handbooks can also be found online at http://www.kofc.org/safe. Click “Support Materials.”
- The policies and procedures contained within these Knights of Columbus Safe Environment Program handbooks are also covered in Praesidium’s Armatus© youth protection training.
26. Why are there three different handbooks relating to The Knights of Columbus Safe Environment Program?
- The three Knights of Columbus Safe Environment Program handbooks address three distinct audiences within the Knights of Columbus: officers, youth leaders, and Columbian Squires and their parents.
- The Knights of Columbus Safe Environment Program Youth Leader Handbook (#5096) addresses issues that youth leaders face relating to the maintenance of a safe environment for young people served through Knights of Columbus programs and activities.
- The Knights of Columbus Safe Environment Program Grand Knight and Faithful Navigator Handbook (#5095) addresses the role grand knights and faithful navigators serve in selecting youth leaders and ensuring compliance with the policies and procedures of the Knights of Columbus Safe Environment Program.
- The Knights of Columbus Safe Environment Program Squire and Parent Handbook (#5094) informs Squires and their parents of key points of the Knights of Columbus Safe Environment Program and how parents may teach their children about personal safety and risks of abuse.
27. Which is the correct youth leader application form to use? Is the Youth Leader Application (#4348) still good?
- No. The Youth Leader Application (#4348) is no longer accepted. Please discontinue the use of the Youth Leader Application (#4348).
- Instead, councils and circles should submit an updated Service Program Personnel Report (#365) or Columbian Squires Officers and Chairmen form (#468) that includes members who serve in designated youth leadership positions.
- The most convenient way to update your council’s Service Program Personnel Report (#365) is by going online to the secure Officers Online section of the Knights of Columbus website at www.kofc.org and selecting the Member Management application.
- Once the updated Service Program Personnel Report (#365) or Columbian Squires Officers and Chairmen form (#468) are received, appointed members will receive electronic notification to take Praesidium’s Armatus© youth protection training and to provide consent to a background check conducted by the Knights of Columbus and Praesidium.
- When submitting the updated Service Program Personnel Report (#365) or Columbian Squires Officers and Chairmen form (#468), please provide as much information on the appointed member as possible, including email address, if available.
28. Do I ever need to renew my training and background check?
- Yes, every two years. All members serving in designated leadership positions requiring Praesidium’s Armatus© youth protection training and a background check are required to renew both their training and background check every two years for as long as the member continues to occupy the designated leadership position.
29. What happens if a member in a designated youth leadership position fails to comply with the policies and procedures set forth in the Knights of Columbus Safe Environment Program, including the requirement to successfully complete the youth protection training and background check?
- Members listed in Board-designated leadership positions (state deputies, grand knights, faithful navigators, state Squires chairmen, state youth directors, youth directors, Columbian Squires chairmen, Squires chief counselors and Squires committee counselors) on the Service Program Personnel Report (#365) are required to complete Praesidium’s Armatus© child abuse awareness and prevention training.
- The member serving in the designated youth leadership position will be removed from the position. As soon as possible, the grand knight or faithful navigator must then appoint a new member who is willing to satisfy the Knights of Columbus Safe Environment Program policies and procedures needed to fill the youth leadership position.
30. What happens if a member in a designated officer position (grand knight, faithful navigator, etc.) fails to comply with the policies and procedures set forth in the Knights of Columbus Safe Environment Program, including the successful completion of the training requirements?
- The member serving in the designated officer position will receive an official letter from the Supreme Office notifying the member that both he and his council are not in compliance with the Knights of Columbus Safe Environment Program and will strongly advise him to complete the training requirement as soon as possible.
Rev. August 2017
English version available here:
Safe Environment Program Information Guide
La version française est disponible ici:
Programme pour un Environment Securitaire Guide D’Information
La versión español está disponible aquí:
Programa de Ambiente Seguro Guía Informativa
Rev. September 2018
In partnership with Praesidium, an organization that has worked to provide knowledge and tools that safeguard against sexual predators for more than 20 years, Knights of Columbus continues its strong tradition of maintaining the highest standards regarding the protection of children and other vulnerable persons. Through this partnership, Knights of Columbus provides fraternal leader and youth leaders with current best practices and resources to keep children safe, including Praesidium’s Armatus® training, background checks, and an exclusive hotline to report child safety concerns (1-844–KOFC–SAFE (1-844–563–2723)).
State deputies, grand knights, and faithful navigators (if their assembly sponsors a circle) must complete youth protection and safe environment training, but are NOT required to undergo background checks UNLESS they also hold a youth leader position.
Knights of Columbus Safe Environment Program policies and procedures are contained within three handbooks:
Grand Knight and Faithful Navigator Handbook
La version française de ces livrets est disponible ici :
Guide du Grand Chevalier et du Fidèle Navigateur
Guide de l’Écuyer et du parent
Las versiones españolas están disponibles aquí:
Manual del Gran Caballero y del Fiel Navegante
All inquiries regarding this program should be directed to the Office of Youth Protection Member Help Line at 203-800-4940 or youthleader@kofc.org
Pour toute question concernant ce programme, merci de bien vouloir contacter le service d'assistance téléphonique du Bureau de la protection de la jeunesse au (203) 800-4940 ou par courriel à youthleader@kofc.org
Toda pregunta respecto a este programa debe dirigirse a la Línea de Ayuda para Miembros de la Oficina de Protección Juvenil al 203-800-4940 o a youthleader@kofc.org
Rev. August 2017
All youth activities sponsored by the Knights of Columbus shall require the presence of at least one member, typically the council’s Youth Director, who has been background checked and trained through the Knights of Columbus Safe Environment Program.
A Knights of Columbus “youth activity” is an activity whose principal subjects are minor children, e.g., Columbian Squires, Basketball Free Throw, etc.
As it is the policy of the Knights of Columbus that all council Youth Directors are required to be background checked and trained in accordance with the Knights of Columbus Safe Environment Program, the Order expects the council Youth Director to be present at all youth activities sponsored by the council.
Council Youth Directors and/or other members background checked and trained in accordance with the Knights of Columbus Safe Environment Program, in consultation with their Grand Knight, shall ensure that all Knights of Columbus Safe Environment policies and procedures are followed at all youth activities sponsored by the Knights of Columbus.
Click Here for Youth Activity Policy/Volunteer Safe Environment Meeting Agenda
Click Here for the Member Safe Environment Policy Quick Reference Guide
Rev. November 2017
Council leaders who are charged with selecting members to lead and supervise youth activities must use their best judgment to select only those men who are fully aware of their responsibilities as youth leaders. These responsibilities include serving as a positive role model and recognizing that public and private conduct can inspire and motivate young people, as well as scandalize and undermine young people’s faith. Only those members who have shown a clear commitment to living out the highest Christian ethical and moral standards and personal integrity in their day-to-day work and personal lives may be considered for selection as youth leaders.
In selecting youth leaders, council leaders should conduct an in-person interview with the candidate, obtain several references relating to the candidate, and maintain continuous observation of the youth leader once approved.
State deputies, grand knights, and faithful navigators (if their assembly sponsors a circle) must complete youth protection and safe environment training, but are NOT required to undergo background checks UNLESS they also hold a youth leader position.
Knights of Columbus Safe Environment Program policies and procedures are contained within three handbooks:
Grand Knight and Faithful Navigator Handbook
La version française de ces livrets est disponible ici :
Guide du Grand Chevalier et du Fidèle Navigateur
Guide de l’Écuyer et du parent
Las versiones españolas están disponibles aquí:
Manual del Gran Caballero y del Fiel Navegante
All inquiries regarding this program should be directed to the Office of Youth Protection Member Help Line at 203-800-4940 or youthleader@kofc.org
Pour toute question concernant ce programme, merci de bien vouloir contacter le service d'assistance téléphonique du Bureau de la protection de la jeunesse au (203) 800-4940 ou par courriel à youthleader@kofc.org
Toda pregunta respecto a este programa debe dirigirse a la Línea de Ayuda para Miembros de la Oficina de Protección Juvenil al 203-800-4940 o a youthleader@kofc.org
Rev. August 2017
The Board of Directors has decided that members are required to take youth protection and safe environment training. Specifically, state deputies, state squires chairmen, state youth directors, grand knights, youth directors, columbian squires chairmen, chief counselors, circle adult counselors, and faithful navigators (if their assembly sponsors a Circle) are required to complete Praesidium’s Armatus® training.
State deputies, grand knights, columbian squire chairmen, chief counselors, circle adult counselors, and faithful navigators (if their assembly sponsors a circle) must complete youth protection and safe environment training, but are NOT required to undergo background checks UNLESS they also hold a youth leader position.
Knights of Columbus Safe Environment Program policies and procedures are contained within three handbooks:
Grand Knight and Faithful Navigator Handbook
La version française de ces livrets est disponible ici :
Guide du Grand Chevalier et du Fidèle Navigateur
Guide de l’Écuyer et du parent
Las versiones españolas están disponibles aquí:
Manual del Gran Caballero y del Fiel Navegante
All inquiries regarding this program should be directed to the Office of Youth Protection Member Help Line at 203-800-4940 or youthleader@kofc.org
Pour toute question concernant ce programme, merci de bien vouloir contacter le service d'assistance téléphonique du Bureau de la protection de la jeunesse au (203) 800-4940 ou par courriel à youthleader@kofc.org
Toda pregunta respecto a este programa debe dirigirse a la Línea de Ayuda para Miembros de la Oficina de Protección Juvenil al 203-800-4940 o a youthleader@kofc.org
Rev. August 2017
It is the policy of the Knights of Columbus that all members selected to serve as youth leaders fulfill all local diocesan safe environment/youth protection training and background check requirements before they begin their service or within 30 days thereafter.
Diocesan safe environment/youth protection requirements typically include completion of an in-person sexual abuse awareness training class and a background check.
Only members who have had the required diocesan training and passed the required diocesan background check are authorized to serve young people through “youth activities” sponsored by the Knights of Columbus. A Knights of Columbus “youth activity” is an activity whose principle subject are children, e.g., Columbian Squires, Basketball Free Throw, Coats for Kids, etc.
To the extent that pastors or bishops require that councils complete local diocesan safe environment/youth protection training and background check requirements, it is the policy of the Knights of Columbus that members should comply as soon as possible.
Knights of Columbus Safe Environment Program policies and procedures are contained within three handbooks:
Grand Knight and Faithful Navigator Handbook
La version française de ces livrets est disponible ici :
Guide du Grand Chevalier et du Fidèle Navigateur
Guide de l’Écuyer et du parent
Las versiones españolas están disponibles aquí:
Manual del Gran Caballero y del Fiel Navegante
All inquiries regarding this program should be directed to the Office of Youth Protection Member Help Line at 203-800-4940 or youthleader@kofc.org
Pour toute question concernant ce programme, merci de bien vouloir contacter le service d'assistance téléphonique du Bureau de la protection de la jeunesse au (203) 800-4940 ou par courriel à youthleader@kofc.org
Toda pregunta respecto a este programa debe dirigirse a la Línea de Ayuda para Miembros de la Oficina de Protección Juvenil al 203-800-4940 o a youthleader@kofc.org
Rev. August 2017
- Members of the Knights of Columbus must remain informed of, and compliant with, diocesan and parish safe environment requirements applicable to council activities on diocesan and parish property.
- Completion of diocesan safe environment program requirements is not necessary for membership in the Knights of Columbus, although it may be necessary for members to volunteer on parish property.
- Knights of Columbus is a fraternal benefit society that operates through a network of subordinate councils that meets on parish property with the permission of the local bishop and pastor.
- Knights of Columbus does not teach, sanctify, or govern in the name of the Church and is not a Church ministry.
- Council rosters contain proprietary and confidential member information and may not be shared with third parties, including with parishes and dioceses, without express authorization.
- Volunteer service on parish property is encouraged, but not required, for membership in the Knights of Columbus.
- Dues paying members choosing not to volunteer on parish property remain members in good standing.
- Knights volunteering in church or parish ministries serve in those ministries as parishioners, and give witness as Knights.
- Knights volunteering in youth activities sponsored by the Knights of Columbus on parish property serve as both Knights and parishioners.
- Knights volunteering in NON-Youth activities sponsored by the Knights of Columbus on parish property serve as both Knights and parishioners.
Rev. August 2017
Dioceses maintain safe environment programs to protect children and other vulnerable persons. Members of the Knights of Columbus must remain informed of, and compliant with, diocesan safe environment requirements applicable to council activities on diocesan and parish property.
Every diocese has a point of contact for safe environment matters who may contact you regarding compliance with diocesan policies. This bulletin will help members comply with applicable diocesan policies while encouraging members to continue volunteering on parish property.
Council rosters contain proprietary and confidential member information and may not be shared with third parties, including with parishes and dioceses, without express authorization. Instead, when complying with diocesan safe environment policies, council FINANCIAL SECRETARIES should, as a best practice:
- Create and maintain a current list of members who are active volunteers in the council, both in Church/parish ministries (e.g., ushers, lectors, extraordinary ministers of the Eucharist) and activities sponsored by the Knights of Columbus.
- Create and maintain a current list of all members who have completed diocesan safe environment requirements.
- Be prepared to share these lists with the diocesan safe environment coordinator upon request.
Being a member does not constitute volunteer activity. Membership does not require volunteer activity on parish property. Council business meetings are not a parish or church ministry. Council meetings on parish property are limited to Catholic men over the age of 18.
Knights of Columbus/Diocesan Safe Environment Program Requirements
|
Knights of Columbus Activity |
Diocesan Requirements |
Knights of Columbus Requirements |
|
Membership |
N/A |
N/A |
|
Council Meetings |
N/A |
N/A |
|
Church Ministries & Parish Ministries |
✓ |
N/A |
|
KofC Youth Activities on Parish Property |
✓ |
✓ |
|
KofC Youth Activities off Parish Property |
N/A |
✓ |
Knights of Columbus Safe Environment Program Requirements by Role
|
Member Officer Role |
Safe Environment Program Training |
Safe Environment Program Background Check |
|
State Deputy |
✓ |
|
|
State Advocate |
✓ |
|
|
State Squires Chairman |
✓ |
✓ |
|
State Youth Director |
✓ |
✓ |
|
Faithful Navigators* |
✓ |
|
|
Grand Knights |
✓ |
|
|
Youth Directors |
✓ |
✓ |
|
Council Squire Chairman |
✓ |
✓ |
|
Chief Counsellors |
✓ |
✓ |
|
Adult Counsellors |
✓ |
✓ |
*Only required if assembly sponsors a Columbian Squires Circle
State Council Compliance Checklist
Council Compliance Checklist (without Columbian Squire Circle)
Council Compliance Checklist (with Columbian Squire Circle)
Rev. August 2017
Cliquez ICI pour accèder aux instructions sur la vérification d’antécédents judiciaires et à la plaquette s’y rapportant en FRANÇAIS.
Click HERE for Canadian Background Check Instructions.
Click HERE for the Canadian Background Packet.
Click HERE for the Philippines Background Packet.
Rev. August 2017
For United States background check information and documents, please email
Rev. August 2017
State deputies and other state officers, as well as district deputies, who receive a removed member's concerns, questions, or complaints should refer the member directly to Lee Ann Harper, Office of Youth Protection Manager, at Lee.Harper@kofc.org OR (203) 752-4640 so that the member's inquiries may be addressed.
All State Deputies should be advised that all council Youth Directors and Columbian Squires Circle counselors must complete their safe environment program training and background check authorization within 30 days of notification. If these youth leaders do not complete the safe environment training and background check authorization within 30 days, they will become ineligible to serve as youth leader and will be notified of their removal from that role by the Supreme Office. The member's grand knight will also be notified of the member's removal as youth leader. The grand knight is also advised to consider appointing a new member to fill the vacant youth leader role. Please note that former youth leader's membership in the Knights of Columbus remains in full force and is unaffected by the noncompliance with the youth leader safe environment program requirements.
Rev. August 2017
Knights of Columbus membership presents numerous opportunities to deepen your faith, serve in your parish and your community, and to obtain highly rated financial products for you and your family.
- After becoming a Knight, you will join your brother Knights as they stand in solidarity with our bishops and priests, live out the Catholic Faith in their homes and parishes across the diocese, and protect the financial security of their families.
- Knights of Columbus programs and activities can take place in your home, your parish, your diocese, and/or your community. As a new member, you will discern how best to serve your family, Church, and community as a Knight.
- When becoming more active in your parish, the Knights of Columbus asks that you remember the important safe environment policies of your diocese.
- A diocese may require that members of the Knights of Columbus who participate in parish and/or council activities on church property complete diocesan safe environment requirements.
- Diocesan policies exist to help volunteers in the diocese do their part to keep children and other vulnerable persons they serve safe.
- Diocesan safe environment requirements should not apply to members who limit their involvement to attending council meetings held on parish property.
- The decision to be an active volunteer is to be made by each member individually and each member’s decision should be respected.
- Completion of diocesan safe environment requirements is not necessary for membership in the Knights of Columbus.
- Only members wishing to participate in programs and activities on parish property, whether in Church/parish ministry or through events sponsored by the Knights of Columbus, need to complete diocesan safe environment requirements.
- If you have previously completed safe environment training and background checks with another organization such as a school, civic group, or other youth serving organization, you will still need to complete the diocesan requirements to volunteer as a Knight on parish property.
- The Knights of Columbus Office of Youth Protection administers its own safe environment Program.
- The Knights of Columbus Safe Environment Program requires Grand Knights to complete Knights of Columbus safe environment training.
- Youth Directors and Squires Counselors are required to complete Knights of Columbus safe environment training and a background check.
- The Knights of Columbus does not rely on other organizations to fulfil its responsibility for protecting children and other vulnerable persons.
Members who have already completed diocesan safe environment requirement may also be required to complete Knights of Columbus Safe Environment Program requirements.
Rev. August 2017
Now that you are a member, you can join your brother Knights as they stand in solidarity with our bishops and priests, live out their Catholic Faith in their homes and parishes across the diocese, and protect the financial security of their families.
- As a member of the Knights of Columbus, you are strongly encouraged to more fully embrace your role as spiritual head of your family, as well as take a more active part in the life of your parish, council, and community.
- Membership in the Knights of Columbus presents many opportunities to deepen your faith, serve in your parish and your community, and to obtain highly rated financial products and services for you and your family.
- As you discern how best to serve your family, the Church, and your community as a member, the Knights of Columbus asks that you remember the important safe environment policies of your diocese when considering volunteering in programs or activities sponsored by the Knights of Columbus on parish property.
- Your diocese may require that members of the Knights of Columbus who serve in Church/parish ministries (e.g., ushers, lectors, Extraordinary Ministers of the Eucharist, etc.) complete diocesan safe environment requirements.
- The diocesan policy helps volunteers on parish property do their part to safeguard children and other vulnerable persons they serve.
Here are three key takeaways for members of the Knights of Columbus:
1. Knights of Columbus members may attend council meetings on parish property without completing diocesan safe environment requirements.
2. Knights of Columbus members who choose to volunteer in the work of the parish may be required to complete diocesan safe environment requirements in accordance with the diocesan safe environment policy.
3. Knights of Columbus members who wish to volunteer in programs and activities on parish property sponsored by the Knights of Columbus may also be required to complete diocesan safe environment requirements.
- Completing diocesan safe environment requirements is not necessary for membership in the Knights of Columbus.
- If a member wishes to volunteer in the work of the Church/parish and/or in Knights of Columbus programs, he may need to comply with diocesan safe environment requirements.
- The decision to be an active volunteer is to be made by each member individually and each member’s decision should be respected.
- The Knights of Columbus Safe Environment Program requires Grand Knights to complete Knights of Columbus safe environment training.
- Youth Directors and all Squires Counselors are required to complete Knights of Columbus safe environment training and a background check.
Rev. August 2017
Columbian Squire Circles with non-compliant Chief Counselors shall be suspended by the Board if such circles’ Chief Counselors fail to comply with all Knights of Columbus Safe Environment Program requirements within 15 days from the date of written notice of such suspension.
A non-compliant Chief Counselor is one who has failed to complete Praesidium's Armatus® training and provide his consent to a background check within 45 days of initial notice of such requirements from the Office of Youth Protection.
Rev. August 2017
Below are the answers to 30 of the most frequently asked questions about the Knights of Columbus Safe Environment Program.
A printable PDF document of these questions and answers may be accessed by clicking on this link.
Le programme pour un environment sécuritaire des Chevaliers de Colomb: Foire Aux Questions
El programa por un Ambiente Seguro de los Caballeros de Colón: Preguntas Frecuentes
1. What is the Knights of Columbus Safe Environment Program?
- The Knights of Columbus has no higher priority than the safety and well-being of the young people served through its programs and activities.
- The Knights of Columbus Safe Environment Program is designed to protect young people served through Knights of Columbus programs and activities, including the Columbian Squires Program, from all forms of abuse.
- Councils participating in official Supreme Council programs and activities are required to comply with all policies and procedures of the Knights of Columbus Safe Environment Program.
- Knights of Columbus Safe Environment Program requirements are in addition to all of the safe environment/youth protection requirements established by local dioceses and parishes.
2. Why does the Knights of Columbus maintain a safe environment program?
- As the world's largest Catholic fraternal service organization, the Knights of Columbus has a responsibility to maintain its own safe environment program across all of the dioceses in which it is active around the world. This means that the Knights of Columbus has a duty to ensure compliance with its own safe environment program policies and procedures, including training and background check requirements.
- The Knights of Columbus maintains the highest standards for the protection of young people across all of its programs and activities within all dioceses in which the Knights of Columbus is active.
- The program helps assure families, dioceses and communities that the Knights of Columbus has done everything within its power to safeguard the young people served through its programs and activities.
- The program helps protect the good name and reputation of the Knights of Columbus.
3. Who administers the Knights of Columbus Safe Environment Program? Who may I call with questions and concerns about the Knights of Columbus Safe Environment Program?
- The Knights of Columbus Safe Environment Program is administered by the Fraternal Services Department of the Knights of Columbus in partnership with Praesidium, an international leader in youth protection.
- All inquiries regarding the program should be directed to the Knights of Columbus Safe Environment Program Line at 203-800-4940 or youthleader@kofc.org
4. What are the essential components of the Knights of Columbus Safe Environment Program?
- The Knights of Columbus Safe Environment Program consists of three key components.
- The first component is Praesidium’s Armatus© child abuse awareness and prevention training.
- This training includes three required training modules for members serving in youth leader and officer roles: “Meet Sam,” which addresses the issue of sexual abuse awareness; “Duty to Report,” which presents legal reporting obligations; and “Know Your Policies,” which covers the Knights of Columbus Safe Environment Program policies and procedures.
- These training modules cover best practices for child abuse prevention and detection.
- The second component is a thorough youth leader screening process, which includes mandatory background checks.
- The following youth leader positions require a background check: state Squires chairman, state youth director, youth director, Columbian Squires chairman, Squires chief counselor and Squires committee counselor.
- The third component is a robust reporting requirement.
- All members of the Knights of Columbus have an obligation to report any and all issues relating to youth protection and safe environments to local law enforcement if they have a reasonable basis to believe that there may be abuse taking place.
- All members serving in Board-designated youth leader or officer roles (state deputies, grand knights, faithful navigators, state Squires chairmen, state youth directors, youth directors, Columbian Squires chairmen, Squires chief counselors and Squires committee counselors) are mandatory reporters under the policies and procedures of the Knights of Columbus Safe Environment Program.
- Mandatory reporters are obligated under the policies and procedures of the Knights of Columbus Safe Environment Program to report suspected abuse to law enforcement if they have a reasonable basis to believe that abuse is taking place.
- The policies and procedures of the Knights of Columbus Safe Environment Program advise that, depending on particular facts and circumstances of a given case, members in designated youth leadership positions notify local pastors and diocesan safe environment directors of potential or actual misconduct.
5. How can someone report a violation of the policies and procedures of the Knights of Columbus Safe Environment Program, or suspected abuse, to the Knights of Columbus?
- Policy and procedure violations and suspected abuse should be reported to the Knights of Columbus Safe Environment Hotline at 1-844-563-2723.
6. In what languages is the Knights of Columbus Safe Environment Program available?
- The Knights of Columbus Safe Environment Program is currently available in English, French and Spanish.
7. Who is Praesidium?
- Praesidium is an international leader in abuse risk management based in Arlington, Texas, which has helped thousands of organizations protect those in their care from abuse.
- Praesidium was started more than three decades ago in response to requests from youth-serving organizations.
- Praesidium has more than 30 years of research and experience in working with more than 4,000 youth- and vulnerable adult-serving organizations. Praesidium knows who is at risk, which types of programs and activities have higher risks, and where and under what circumstances incidents and false allegations are most likely to occur.
- Praesidium researched and developed the “Protecting God’s Children” video used widely throughout the dioceses of the United States.
- To find out more information, you may visit Praesidium’s website: http://website.praesidiuminc.com/
8. Why has the Knights of Columbus decided to partner with Praesidium?
- After more than a year of careful study, review and analysis, as well as a competitive bid process, the Board of Directors of the Knights of Columbus elected to partner with Praesidium to provide guidance on how to enhance the Order’s existing safe environment program.
- Praesidium enjoys an outstanding international reputation for its expertise in assisting large youth-serving organizations to maintain the highest standards for the protection of young people and for the comprehensive scope of its products and services.
9. Who must comply with the policies and procedures of the Knights of Columbus Safe Environment Program?
- Every person serving in a Knights of Columbus sponsored youth program or activity is required to comply with the program.
- Councils participating in official Supreme Council programs and activities are required to comply with all policies and procedures of the Knights of Columbus Safe Environment Program.
10. What about officers and fraternal leaders who directly or indirectly serve young people through Knights of Columbus programs and activities? Do they require special training and background checks?
- Yes. Members holding certain Board-designated leadership positions (state deputies, grand knights, faithful navigators, state Squires chairmen, state youth directors, youth directors, Columbian Squires chairmen, Squires chief counselors and Squires committee counselors) are required to complete Praesidium’s Armatus© youth protection training.
- In addition, members in designated youth leadership positions (state Squires chairmen, state youth directors, youth directors, Columbian Squires chairmen, Squires chief counselors and Squires committee counselors) are required to undergo a background check.
11. Which youth leaders are required to complete Praesidium’s Armatus© youth protection training and undergo a background check?
- Members duly appointed by their grand knight or state deputy to the following Board-designated youth leadership positions are required to complete Praesidium’s Armatus© youth protection training and undergo a background check:
* State Squires chairmen
* State youth directors
* Council youth directors
* Columbian Squires chairmen
* Squires chief counselors
* Squire committee counselors
12. Which officers must complete Praesidium’s Armatus© youth protection training?
- Members holding the following Board-designated officer positions are required to complete Praesidium’s Armatus© youth protection training:
* State deputies
* Grand knights
* Faithful navigators (if their assemblies sponsor a Columbian Squires Circle)
13. Must state deputies, grand knights and faithful navigators undergo a background check?
- No, unless he also holds a Board designated Youth Leader position.
14. How do I access the online training?
- Members in designated leadership positions requiring Praesidium’s Armatus© online youth protection training will receive a username and password via email or regular mail.
- Training may also be accessed at http://www.kofc.org/safe (click “Knights of Columbus Safe Environment Program”) or http://website.praesidiuminc.com/LoginNow.
15. What should you do if you believe that you are required to complete Praesidium’s Armatus© youth protection training but have not received a username and password?
- Please submit your request for a username and password to the Knights of Columbus Safe Environment Program Line at 203-800-4940 or youthleader@kofc.org.
16. What if you are not required to complete Praesidium’s Armatus© youth protection training but are interested in doing so?
- Please express your interest in taking Praesidium’s Armatus© youth protection training by using the Knights of Columbus Safe Environment Program Line at 203-800-4940 or by writing to youthleader@kofc.org.
17. Is it okay to provide others with your username and password?
- No. Sharing your username and password with others may prevent you from receiving credit for having completed the required training.
18. Why are members in designated youth leadership positions required to complete Praesidium’s Armatus© youth protection training and a background check?
- Members serving in designated youth leadership positions are required to complete Praesidium’s Armatus© youth protection training and a background check because of their direct responsibility to protect the young people entrusted to their care by parents, the Knights of Columbus and the local community.
- The Knights of Columbus Safe Environment Program helps assure families, dioceses and communities that the Knights of Columbus has done everything within its power to safeguard the young people served through its programs and activities.
- The Knights of Columbus Safe Environment Program also helps protect members serving in designated youth leader positions against false allegations of misconduct.
19. Why are state deputies, grand knights and faithful navigators required to complete Praesidium’s Armatus© youth protection training?
- State Deputies, grand knights, and faithful navigators (if their assemblies sponsor a Columbian Squires Circle) are required to complete Praesidium’s Armatus© youth protection training to help ensure that they understand the policies and procedures that members of the Knights of Columbus are expected to follow regarding the safety and well-being of young people served through the Order’s programs and activities.
- Even if there are no council/assembly sponsored youth programs, as the top officers of their respective subordinate units, state deputies, grand knights and faithful navigators serve as the chief compliance officers for their jurisdictions, councils and assemblies in matters relating to the Knights of Columbus Safe Environment Program.
20. Will diocesan training or training completed through an employer or any other organization be accepted as a substitute for Praesidium’s Armatus© safe environment and youth protection training?
- No. Members serving in designated leadership roles must complete Praesidium’s Armatus© youth protection training covering policies and procedures particular to the Knights of Columbus Safe Environment Program.
- Knights of Columbus Safe Environment Program requirements are in addition to all safe environment and youth protection requirements established by local dioceses and parishes.
- As the world's largest Catholic fraternal service organization, the Knights of Columbus is responsible for maintaining its own Safe Environment Program across all of the dioceses in which it serves. This includes ensuring compliance with its own safe environment training and background checks.
- The Knights of Columbus Safe Environment Program training modules contain certain policies and procedures specific to the Knights of Columbus that cannot be found in any other youth protection training program.
- These policies and procedures set forth uniform youth protection standards for members of the Knights of Columbus throughout the world.
- The policies and procedures of the Knights of Columbus Safe Environment Program allow the Order to maintain direct responsibility for the compliance of Board-designated youth leaders and officers with required training and background checks to ensure the safest possible environment for the young people participating in the programs and activities of the Knights of Columbus.
21. Will prior background checks run by the diocese, a school system or any other organization be accepted as a substitute for a Knights of Columbus background check conducted by Praesidium?
- No. Only a Knights of Columbus background check administered by Praesidium will be accepted. Due to privacy laws, the Knights of Columbus may not obtain, review or otherwise rely on background checks conducted on members by another employer or organization.
- Knights of Columbus Safe Environment Program requirements are in addition to all of the safe environment and youth protection requirements established by local dioceses and parishes.
- As the world's largest Catholic fraternal service organization, the Knights of Columbus is responsible for maintaining its own Safe Environment Program across all of the dioceses in which it serves. This includes ensuring compliance with its own safe environment training and its own background checks.
- Just as other youth-serving organizations require their own background checks before individual persons are allowed to lead and/or otherwise participate in such organizations’ programs and activities, it is the policy of the Knights of Columbus to maintain its own original background check on file for all members who serve in designated youth leadership positions relating to the Order’s programs and activities.
- The policies and procedures of the Knights of Columbus Safe Environment Program allow the Order to maintain direct responsibility for the compliance of Board-designated youth leaders and officers with required training and background checks to ensure the safest possible environment for the young people participating in the programs and activities of the Knights of Columbus.
22. Must Board-designated youth leaders also comply with diocesan safe environment program requirements, including the need to complete diocesan youth protection training and diocesan background checks?
- Yes. Diocesan safe environment and youth protection requirements typically apply to any member of the Knights of Columbus who volunteers with young people in any diocesan parish or school.
- Board-designated youth leaders, as well as any other members of the Knights of Columbus who volunteer in any diocesan school or parish program or activity, must comply with any and all safe environment and youth protection training and background check requirements for the diocese and parish in which they volunteer.
- Knights of Columbus Safe Environment Program requirements are in addition to all safe environment and youth protection requirements established by local dioceses and parishes.
23. What will be done with my background check information, and what happens if there is adverse information?
- In the event that background information requires additional review, the Order’s Safe Environment Background Records Review Committee will review the information.
- Members of the Safe Environment Background Records Review Committee are bound by strict confidentiality.
24. What assurances can the Knights of Columbus give me that my personal information is safe and secure with the Knights of Columbus and Praesidium? What has the Knights of Columbus done to protect members’ personal information?
- Members' personal information is maintained confidentially and securely by Praesidum and the Knights of Columbus according to criteria set forth in each organization's strict data privacy policies. Knights of Columbus Information Technology Security personnel thoroughly reviewed the data security controls relating to the Praesidium application and have confirmed that those controls provide for the safety of member information.
- All communications between the Knights of Columbus and Praesidium occur over encrypted channels.
- All data maintained by the Knights of Columbus are secure and confidential, shared only with those who have a specified need to know (for example, the members of the Safe Environment Background Records Review Committee, who are bound by strict confidentiality).
25. Where can I find Knights of Columbus Safe Environment Program policies and procedures?
- Most policies and procedures of the Knights of Columbus Safe Environment Program are readily available for review in three publications: Knights of Columbus Safe Environment Program Grand Knight and Faithful Navigator Handbook (#5095), Knights of Columbus Safe Environment Program Youth Leader Handbook (#5096) and Knights of Columbus Safe Environment Program Squire and Parent Handbook (#5094).
- These three Knights of Columbus Safe Environment Program handbooks have been provided to state deputies, grand knights and faithful navigators (whose assemblies sponsor Columbian Squires Circles).
- These three Knights of Columbus Safe Environment Program handbooks can also be found online at http://www.kofc.org/safe. Click “Support Materials.”
- The policies and procedures contained within these Knights of Columbus Safe Environment Program handbooks are also covered in Praesidium’s Armatus© youth protection training.
26. Why are there three different handbooks relating to The Knights of Columbus Safe Environment Program?
- The three Knights of Columbus Safe Environment Program handbooks address three distinct audiences within the Knights of Columbus: officers, youth leaders, and Columbian Squires and their parents.
- The Knights of Columbus Safe Environment Program Youth Leader Handbook (#5096) addresses issues that youth leaders face relating to the maintenance of a safe environment for young people served through Knights of Columbus programs and activities.
- The Knights of Columbus Safe Environment Program Grand Knight and Faithful Navigator Handbook (#5095) addresses the role grand knights and faithful navigators serve in selecting youth leaders and ensuring compliance with the policies and procedures of the Knights of Columbus Safe Environment Program.
- The Knights of Columbus Safe Environment Program Squire and Parent Handbook (#5094) informs Squires and their parents of key points of the Knights of Columbus Safe Environment Program and how parents may teach their children about personal safety and risks of abuse.
27. Which is the correct youth leader application form to use? Is the Youth Leader Application (#4348) still good?
- No. The Youth Leader Application (#4348) is no longer accepted. Please discontinue the use of the Youth Leader Application (#4348).
- Instead, councils and circles should submit an updated Service Program Personnel Report (#365) or Columbian Squires Officers and Chairmen form (#468) that includes members who serve in designated youth leadership positions.
- The most convenient way to update your council’s Service Program Personnel Report (#365) is by going online to the secure Officers Online section of the Knights of Columbus website at www.kofc.org and selecting the Member Management application.
- Once the updated Service Program Personnel Report (#365) or Columbian Squires Officers and Chairmen form (#468) are received, appointed members will receive electronic notification to take Praesidium’s Armatus© youth protection training and to provide consent to a background check conducted by the Knights of Columbus and Praesidium.
- When submitting the updated Service Program Personnel Report (#365) or Columbian Squires Officers and Chairmen form (#468), please provide as much information on the appointed member as possible, including email address, if available.
28. Do I ever need to renew my training and background check?
- Yes, every two years. All members serving in designated leadership positions requiring Praesidium’s Armatus© youth protection training and a background check are required to renew both their training and background check every two years for as long as the member continues to occupy the designated leadership position.
29. What happens if a member in a designated youth leadership position fails to comply with the policies and procedures set forth in the Knights of Columbus Safe Environment Program, including the requirement to successfully complete the youth protection training and background check?
- Members listed in Board-designated leadership positions (state deputies, grand knights, faithful navigators, state Squires chairmen, state youth directors, youth directors, Columbian Squires chairmen, Squires chief counselors and Squires committee counselors) on the Service Program Personnel Report (#365) are required to complete Praesidium’s Armatus© child abuse awareness and prevention training.
- The member serving in the designated youth leadership position will be removed from the position. As soon as possible, the grand knight or faithful navigator must then appoint a new member who is willing to satisfy the Knights of Columbus Safe Environment Program policies and procedures needed to fill the youth leadership position.
30. What happens if a member in a designated officer position (grand knight, faithful navigator, etc.) fails to comply with the policies and procedures set forth in the Knights of Columbus Safe Environment Program, including the successful completion of the training requirements?
- The member serving in the designated officer position will receive an official letter from the Supreme Office notifying the member that both he and his council are not in compliance with the Knights of Columbus Safe Environment Program and will strongly advise him to complete the training requirement as soon as possible.
Rev. August 2017
Below are the answers to the most frequently asked questions about the Knights of Columbus members and compliance with diocesan safe environment policies.
A printable PDF document of these questions and answers may be accessed by clicking on this link.
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1. Must members of the Knights of Columbus comply with applicable diocesan safe environment requirements to volunteer on parish or diocesan property?
YES. Members of the Knights of Columbus must remain informed of, and compliant with, diocesan and parish safe environment requirements applicable to council activities on diocesan and parish property.
- All prospective and new members of the Knights of Columbus are strongly encouraged to take an active role in the life of their parish and their council.
- Prospective and new members should also be promptly advised of any applicable parish/diocese safe environment policy requirements necessary to be eligible to volunteer on parish property, regardless of whether they do so in the name of the Church, the parish, or the Knights of Columbus.
2. Must a Catholic man complete diocesan safe environment requirements to be eligible to become a member of the Knights of Columbus?
NO. Completion of diocesan safe environment program requirements is not necessary for membership in the Knights of Columbus, although it may be necessary for members to volunteer on parish property.
- Completion of diocesan/parish safe environment requirements is not necessary for membership in the Knights of Columbus, although in some cases it may be necessary for members to be eligible to volunteer on parish property.
- Pursuant to Section 246 of the Laws of the Knights of Columbus, subordinate councils may not establish new membership requirements, such as compliance with diocesan safe environments requirements, beyond those prescribed by Section 101 of the Laws of the Knights of Columbus.
3. Is the Knights of Columbus a Church Ministry?
NO. Knights of Columbus is a fraternal benefit society that operates through a network of subordinate councils that meets on parish property with the permission of the local bishop and pastor.
- Knights of Columbus is a fraternal benefit society that is recognized by the Internal Revenue Service as a tax exempt entity under Title 26, United States Code, Section 501(c)(8).
- It operates through a system of subordinate councils, along with regional, national, and international convocations, to raise up, support and encourage a fraternity whose members are practicing Catholics and, through common worship, charitable works, meetings, and rites of initiation, to form its members in Catholic faith and virtue.
- Its subordinate councils meet and frequently sponsor activities and events on parish property, with the permission of the pastor or the bishop.
4. May council rosters be shared with third parties, including parishes and dioceses, without first obtaining prior authorization.
NO. Council rosters contain confidential and proprietary member information and may not be shared with third parties without authorization, including with parishes and dioceses.
- It is the longstanding policy of the Knights of Columbus that council rosters, which contain confidential and proprietary member information, are the exclusive property of the Knights of Columbus and may not be disclosed to third parties without prior authorization.
- The Knights of Columbus will not share personal information related to membership application or service as a youth leader with nonaffiliated third parties unless authorized by law or when there is an indication of a threat to public safety.
5. Must members volunteer on parish property to maintain their membership in the Knights of Columbus?
NO. Volunteer service on parish property is encouraged, but not required, for membership in the Knights of Columbus.
- Whether to serve as a volunteer on parish property is a personal decision to be made by each member individually.
- Members who choose to volunteer in the work of the parish, including programs and activities sponsored by the Knights of Columbus on parish property, must complete applicable diocesan safe environment requirements.
- However, such volunteer service on parish property is not a membership requirement of the Knights of Columbus.
6. Do Knights who volunteer in church and parish ministries (e.g., ushers, extraordinary ministers of the Eucharist, lectors, etc.) do so as Knights or as parishioners?
PARISHIONERS. Knights volunteering in church or parish ministries serve in those ministries as parishioners and witness to their Faith as members of the Knights of Columbus.
- Service in church and parish ministries (e.g., ushers, extraordinary ministers of the Eucharist, lectors, etc.) is performed by parishioners.
- Knights of Columbus encourages its members to witness to their Faith by volunteering in church and parish ministries.
- Knights who volunteer in church or parish ministries do so as parishioners.
- Therefore, Knights serving in church or parish ministries are subject to diocesan requirements specific to those ministries.
7. If I have already taken another organization’s youth protection training and background check, do I have complete the requirements of the Knights of Columbus Safe Environment Program?
YES. The Knights of Columbus does not rely on other organizations to fulfil its responsibility for protecting children and other vulnerable persons.
- The Knights of Columbus is responsible for ensuring that its members know Knights of Columbus Safe Environment/Youth Protection Policies and Procedures.
- Knights of Columbus conducts and maintains its own original background checks on those members serving in youth leader roles.
- Knights of Columbus is not allowed to access confidential, privileged, and otherwise legally protected files and records of other organizations.
- Knights of Columbus protects and preserves each member’s record of completion to protect the member and the Order.
8. Are members who pay their dues, but choose not to volunteer on parish property, members in good standing with the Knights of Columbus?
YES. Dues paying members choosing not to volunteer on parish property remain members in good standing.
- A member who declines to submit to diocesan/parish safe environment requirements remains a member in good standing, although he may be prohibited from volunteering on parish property.
- Such members remain eligible to volunteer in programs, activities, and events sponsored by the Knights of Columbus that do not take place on parish property.
9. Do members who serve in youth activities sponsored by the Knights of Columbus do so as Knights or parishioners or both?
Knights volunteering in Knights of Columbus youth activities on parish property serve as both Knights and parishioners.
- Knights who volunteer in youth activities sponsored by the Knights of Columbus on parish property do so as both Knights and parishioners.
- Therefore, members volunteering in these youth activities are subject to both diocesan requirements and Knights of Columbus Safe Environment Program requirements.
- Knights who volunteer in non-youth activities sponsored by the Knights of Columbus on parish property may be subject to applicable diocesan requirements.
Rev. August 2017