Greetings parents! We are excited to kick off our Ignite Youth Ministry year this Thursday night! It is our second year running youth ministry in a COVID-19 reality. Much has been learned over the past year and so we will be implementing best practices and regularly following current guidelines in order to run an amazing safe program. As you are aware, even with precautions in place there is a certain amount of risk when a youth participates in Ignite just like there is for other activities and events outside of our homes. In light of this, we wanted to remind everyone of the guidelines we are implementing in Ignite and ask parents to read and sign this consent form which hopefully is very clear and agreeable. If you have any questions regarding this information, feel free to email us at ignite@peopleofhope.net
APPROACH - GUIDELINES:
- There will be regular monitoring of volunteers and participants for symptoms of sickness during events
- Sanitizing agents will be readily available at all times to volunteers and participants at all events (hand sanitizer and cleaning supplies)
- Volunteers will oversee the cleaning and disinfecting of high touch surfaces before and after events
- Ventilation will be prioritized at all events through the use of fans, opening windows and more.
- USE OF MASKS/FACE COVERINGS: There are no current requirements by the state of NJ or the Newark Archdiocese regarding the wearing of face masks for youth ministry activities. The CDC has recommended guidelines for mask use which you can find on their website. Those who desire to are welcome to wear face masks at any Ignite activity.
- There should be no sharing of items and equipment between individuals and groups
- We encourage frequent washing of hands, or use of hand sanitizer, by both participants and volunteers
- Any snacks or beverages at events will be packaged products handled with care by designated volunteers following specific food protocols.
PARENTAL CONSENT:
I recognize that Covid-19 is an inherent risk. I understand that Ignite is following all NJ guidelines and implementing various recommendations outlined in the Archdiocese of Newark’s Youth Ministry Resource Guide (“Accompanying Young People During Covd-19”). Participants and volunteers will be following the guidelines stated in this document with the ongoing support of Ignite leadership. I realize they cannot provide me, my child, or my group with 100% assurance that they cannot contract the illness while they are engaging in activities that are part of the program. Covid-19 is an inherent risk in every activity people choose to participate in at our current time and these activities are no exception.