The first requirement of our safe environment program is for our members to be compliant with diocesan safe environment requirements applicable to members’ volunteer activities on parish property. We invite diocesan safe environment coordinators and victim assistance coordinators to contact us directly with all questions and concerns that relate to the Knights of Columbus.
The Knights of Columbus Safe Environment Program is operated in conjunction with PRAESIDIUM, which specializes in preventing sexual abuse in organizations that serve youth and vulnerable adults. Our online training modules cover sexual abuse awareness and prevention, reporting, and policies, and are available to all our members, but required for members volunteering in key leadership roles. Members volunteering to serve in key leadership roles are also required to complete a screening process, including a robust and comprehensive background check.
Zero Tolerance
In accordance with the Order’s commitment to a Zero Tolerance policy for abuse of minors and vulnerable persons, members who are required by law to register as a sex offender or child offender are ineligible for membership in the Knights of Columbus, and must agree to notify their council’s Grand Knight and/or Financial Secretary of any arrest, charge, indictment, guilty plea, criminal conviction, civil judgment, or adverse administrative determination involving either sexual misconduct or an offense against a child or a violent offense. Members must also agree to notify their council’s Grand Knight and/or Financial Secretary of any felony conviction that occurs after having been initiated into the Knights of Columbus.
Ontario State Council makes available additional Safe Environment Resources