Safeguarding
Her safety comes before everything, including growth.
This policy is public, in full, in every language we operate in. If anything here is not being followed, we want to know before anyone else does.
The standard
Eight rules. No exceptions.
- Every adult is screened. Background check in their jurisdiction and internationally where available, reference check, and a minimum of 8 hours of training before first contact with a girl.
- Two-adult rule. No adult is ever alone with a girl out of sight of another adult. Mentoring happens in program or public spaces only.
- No private channels. Mentors and girls do not communicate on personal social media or private messaging. Program-approved channels only, logged.
- Independent reporting line. Girls and families can report a concern through a channel that does not go through local staff.
- A named Safeguarding Lead in every chapter. The global Safeguarding Director reports directly to the board, not to the CEO.
- Consent that can be withdrawn. Photo and story consent is written, revocable, and renewed yearly. Girls under 13 are never identified by full name or location.
- Annual independent safeguarding audit. The summary is published here.
- Mandatory reporting. Every staff member and volunteer follows the mandatory-reporting law of their jurisdiction, and our policy where the law is silent.
Mentor screening
What it takes to be matched with a girl.
1
Apply
Written application and two references who have known you for three or more years.
2
Screen
Criminal background check, sex-offender registry check, and an interview with the chapter Safeguarding Lead.
3
Train
Minimum 8 hours: safeguarding, boundaries, trauma awareness, and how to listen without fixing.
4
Match
One girl, one year, two meetings a month in program spaces. Re-screened annually.
Report a concern
If something is wrong, tell us.
Use the form below. It goes to the Safeguarding Director, not to chapter staff. You may report anonymously. If a girl is in immediate danger, contact local emergency services first.