Small little things can make a huge impact!

This month, we are delving into the power of the seemingly small yet incredibly impactful moments in our lives.

Whether it is a kind word, a small gift, or a smile.

We ought to also take time to watch and observe the small things that could be an indicator that someone needs protection.

Today I received a phone call from a gentleman concerned that a young girl in his class had walked to class alone. When he asked the question, “Why?”, she answered, “My mom drinks a lot and can’t get up from bed when she has had a lot to drink. On those days, I help take care of her, and I have to come on my own.” I really appreciated how observant he was and how concerned that this young girl may be in need of protection.

In a world filled with constant hustle and noise, it's easy to overlook the significance of things we could easily overlook or not pay attention to. It is also easy to overlook the moments that shape our days and our reactions. Whether it's a genuine smile exchanged with a stranger, a few moments of reflection in the midst of a busy day, or a simple act of kindness that brightens someone's path, these small actions can have a ripple effect that reaches far beyond their initial scope.

As we explore these small yet impactful moments, we're reminded of our shared humanity and the potential we all possess to make a positive difference, regardless of our beliefs or backgrounds. Together, let's uncover the hidden treasures that lie within the everyday, and discover the profound impact that even the simplest gestures can have on our lives and the lives of those around us.

Thank you for joining us on this journey as we seek to honor the values that bind us together and embrace the potential for positive change that resides within us all to protect those that are vulnerable among us.

In Loving Memory of Our Chief Operating Officer, Lana Luk

We are a small team of approximately ten staff members. On August 12^th our Chief Operating Officer, Lana Luk suffered a massive heart attack and did not survive. Lana had just turned 53 years old. Lana was creative, artistic, generous, kind and hard-working. She exemplified the impact of taking time to know and care for each staff member. Lana was generous and caring. She really loved working with our younger staff, encouraging them as their careers took off. Her passing has left a hole in our hearts and our team. We are reminded of how life is so fragile. Life's fragility is a theme that resonates deeply with our human experiences. For some of us, our faith teaches that our time on Earth is transient, a fleeting moment in the grand tapestry of who we are and why we exist. Much like the delicate petals of a flower, life's beauty and vitality can be unexpectedly disrupted. While our work at Plan to Protect^® focuses on preventing harm and protecting the vulnerable, Lana's quick passing is a reminder that we must cherish each moment, walk in love, and hold steadfast to the values that guide us. May we take time to appreciate and value those that we work with.

We will miss Lana so much, and we are truly indebted to the impact she had on each one of us and how she helped keep the day-to-day operations of Plan to Protect^® moving. Please bear with us as we recover from this deep loss.

The Role and Responsibility of Members at Large

Over the last few months we have been unpacking the roles and responsibilities of individuals that sit on a Plan to Protect^® committee. If you missed the earlier segments, check out our blog for the role of The Board, Senior Staff Members, Administrators, and Trainers:

This month, we will end the series with the role and responsibilities of Members at Large that sit on the Plan to Protect^® Committee.

Members at large, also known as at-large members, typically refer to individuals who are part of the committee but do not hold specific officer positions or titles. They serve as general members and often play important roles in decision-making, oversight, and providing diverse perspectives. Given your involvement with Plan to Protect^® and your desire to prevent abuse, you might find it interesting to know that members at large can play a crucial role in ensuring accountability and transparency within organizations, especially those focused on abuse prevention.

Their responsibilities can include:

Participation in Meetings: Members at large are expected to attend regular meetings, discussions, and workshops related to the organization's activities, goals, and initiatives.

Decision-Making: While they might not have specific titles, members at large are usually given the opportunity to participate in decision-making processes or influence of the content of policies and procedures. Their input is valued and can contribute to well-rounded decisions.

Representing Diverse Perspectives: Members at large often bring diverse viewpoints and experiences to the table. They can help ensure that decisions consider a wide range of factors and potential impacts. They may be students, parents, grandparents, or department heads.

Oversight and Accountability: They can help hold departments accountable to the policies and procedures by monitoring actions and ensuring the department volunteers and staff are complying to policies and procedures and aligning with the organization's mission, values, and goals.

Advocacy: Members at large can advocate for abuse prevention helping to address the challenges or obstacles that arise.

Feedback and Input: They provide valuable feedback and input on various matters, contributing to safeguarding.

Supporting Leadership: Although not in formal leadership roles, members at large can offer support and assistance.

Engagement: Members at large often can assist the Administrator with screening steps and the Trainer during a training event, etc.

Though Members at Large may feel their roles are small and insignificant on the committee, they can make such a difference in helping to spread the word of the importance of safeguarding.

Purchase a Basic Membership during the month of September, and we will double the online training that you receive with your membership. This is a significant savings and will allow you to provide abuse prevention training online to more of your volunteers and staff members. When you purchase a Plan to Protect^® membership, you will be assigned a dedicated account manager to support you as you maintain your safeguarding activities. You will also receive the newest version of the Plan to Protect^® manual with up-to-date policy and procedure statements, email and phone support, discounts on our services and training, access to the Plan to Protect^® Membership section of the website, and to our library of Special Interest Webinars.

Request a quote for membership today - Click here

Purchase and pay for it during the month of September to receive $100-$300 added benefits.

Don't Miss Our... Special Interest Webinar: Plan to Protect^®

for Small & Medium Sized Organizations

September 14, 2023

12:00pm - 1:00pm Eastern Time

During this month's webinar, we will be raising awareness for the need for a plan to protect in small & medium sized organizations. Sometimes when we think "we know everybody so nothing bad can happen" we let our guard down. Today we will discuss the need to be vigilant while maintaining the "family" feel of these organizations.

Non-members $35/person plus tax

Members Free

Plan to Protect ^® Orientation for Board

Members & Trustees LIVE Webinar

September 7, 2023

8:00pm - 9:30pm Eastern Time

We have modified our Plan to Protect^® Orientation training for Board Members and Trustees. This training will equip leaders to:

A Board Member's/Trustee's responsibility when it comes to safeguarding
Achieving a high standard of protection and safeguarding
Gain a heightened awareness of the prevalence of abuse and the categories and definitions of abuse
Respond appropriately to high-risk activities that could place the charity and the Board at risk and more

$35/person plus tax

Bundle options available.

Plan to Protect^® 101

Septmeber 12, 2023

12:30pm - 1:00pm Eastern Time

Learn the basics and standard of Plan to Protect^® This is a complimentary webinar. Register to participate LIVE with Q&A time, or to receive access to an instant replay.

FREE