Mandated Reporter Training – FAQs
- Who is a Mandated Reporter?
A mandated reporter is an individual held to a higher standard of responsibility and there can be serious consequences when they don’t report suspected abuse. For more information, check out keepkidssafe.pa.gov. - Am I Mandated Reporter?
In the state of PA, any volunteer serving with children in PA is a Mandated Reporter. By signing the CCCS Volunteer Affidavit, every CCCS volunteer is a Mandated Reporter. - Why do I need to do this?
This training reflects changes in the state law (Act 153) that were enacted to prevent child abuse in the state of PA in response to the cover-up to abuse at Penn State University. Also, we as believers want to be obedient to the Lord and the Word of God. Our heart is to do all we can to protect the children entrusted to our care. “It were better for him that a millstone were hanged about his neck, and he cast into the sea, than that he should offend one of these little ones.” Luke 17:2 - Is the training mandatory?
Yes, every volunteer that serves with children at CCCS is required to complete a Mandated Reporter Training (either in-person or online) and turn in a Certificate of Completion to the church office. - Should Youth Helpers Attend?
No, youth helpers are not to attend this training, with the exception of any youth helpers turning 18 years old this year (anyone born in 1999). - Will I still be able to serve in children’s ministry if I don’t have the certification?
No, anyone serving in Children’s Ministry at CCCS is required to take the Mandated Reporter Training and turn in their Certificate of Completion to the church office. - What if I can’t make it to the training, is there some other way for me to complete the program?
For anyone that is not able to attend in person, you may to take the three-hour online training through the Univ. of Pittsburgh’s Child Welfare Resource Center. Upon completion of the training, you will receive a certificate. Please turn the Certificate of Completion into the church office. - What if I already took this training (for work, school, etc.), can you use that Certificate?
Yes, a Certificate of Completion for Mandated Reporter Training from another organization is acceptable if a copy of the certificate is turned into the church office. - Will this be offered another time?
At the moment, another date has not been scheduled. - Will there be childcare?
No, there is no childcare provided. - Is there a cost for this training?
No, the training is FREE. And, there is a free continental breakfast from 8-9am. - Who should attend the training?
Everyone (18 years and older) is welcome and encouraged to attend the training. - Will it be live-streamed?
No, it will not be live-streamed nor recorded.