Safe Environment Program

Jeanie Snyder - 615-777-8905 - jeanie.snyder@ctk-nashville.org
Dawnne Stephens - 615-777-8904 - dawnne.stephens@ctk-nashville.org

All parishes and institutions of the Diocese of Nashville participate in the Diocesan Safe Environment program, as mandated by the Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People promulgated by the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops. Our parish and school join the diocesan effort in creating and maintaining a safe environment for all children and young people in our care. 

Measures include a detailed code of conduct for ministers, employees, and volunteers, and clear policies on responding to allegations of abuse or misconduct. All employees and volunteers who have regular or ongoing contact with children and youth are required to complete training on signs of abuse and on the required actions to be taken when such signs are observed. This includes how to comply with legal requirements for reporting suspected abuse to the appropriate civil authorities.  Under Tennesse law, anyone with "reasonable cause to suspect"  abuse or neglect of a child, must report it to DCS.  

The Diocese also employs a curriculum for use with children and youth that provides age-appropriate treatments of safety and personal well-being, fully in line with Catholic teaching. Please visit the diocesan Safe Environment webpage for a comprehensive listing of policies and resources.

Contact the Parish Safe Environment Coordinator

Parent Help Line: 800-356-6767

Parent Helpline (Kids Don't Come With Instructions) is a 24 hour, toll-free helpline providing supportive listening, information, and referrals for families experiencing problems or stress. Parents are encouraged to explore solutions to the stresses of parenting and assistance is provided to link families with community support services. Behavior management, child development and non-physical forms of discipline are discussed.

Sponsored by Prevent Child Abuse Tennessee, click thru to PCAT website 

For other resources recommended by the Diocesan Safe Environment Coordinator, visit the Diocesan Safe Environment Program site and USCCB Secretariat for Child and Youth Protection site