Protect the Children in Our Care

E-News
Written By Lexanne Graves

by Lexanne Graves, Pinnacle Associate

Every week, we open our doors and welcome the children and youth of our community. They are a gift from God, and it is our sacred duty to protect them. But as leaders, we must ask ourselves a critical question: Are we doing everything we can to keep them safe from harm?

An effective Youth and Child Protection Policy is the most important tool we have to prevent abuse and create a secure environment. This isn't just about following rules; it's about actively building a culture of safety and trust.

If your congregation doesn't have a policy—or has one that isn't regularly enforced with training—you may be putting children and the adults who serve them at risk. The statistics on child abuse are sobering, and they remind us of the urgent need for action: The World Health Organization 2022 estimates that up to one billion children experience violence each year.  The CDC 2024 data reveals that 1 in 4 girls and 1 in 13 boys in the U.S. are estimated to experience child sexual abuse.  

The good news is we can prevent this. A strong policy, combined with consistent training, is proven to be one of the most effective ways to protect our young people. 

Take Action Now: A PINNACLE WORKSHOP on Child/Youth Protection Policies

This workshop is a crucial step toward ensuring the safety and security of every child and youth who enters your doors. It's a chance to build a policy from the ground up or strengthen the one you already have. This isn't just a training; it's a vital part of our shared commitment to the most vulnerable members of our community.

What: PINNACLE WORKSHOP on Child/Youth Protection Policies 

When: Thursday, November 20, 2025, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. 

Where: Columbia Midlands Congregation site (location to be determined)

Led by:  Deacon Lexanne K. Graves (803-315-3828)  

Register here:  https://www.pinnlead.com/registration/p/child-protection-policy-workshop

This workshop is for all faith communities and non-profit organizations. Let's work together to create a safe place for our children, youth, and the adults who care for them.

Lexanne Graves

Deacon Lexanne K. Graves was ordained in 2000 through the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA) and has served congregations in lifelong faith formation, children and youth ministry, pastoral care, leadership development, social media content creation, and social justice awareness while facilitating teamwork among staff and committees. She also presently serves the ELCA South Carolina Synod as its Vice President through August 2025 and has assisted in policy-making and procedures from a local, synodical, and national perspective. Leaning into over two decades of ministry experience from cradle to grave, Lexanne seeks to support individuals, leaders and congregations move forward into their identified purpose and calling in life through coaching and consulting. She and her husband reside in Blythewood, SC with their two children. 

https://pinnlead.com/ourteam
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