We truly believe that the majority of staff members and volunteers are remarkable — they show up with servant hearts, ready to help, encourage, and love those around them. These people create safe, welcoming environments in our churches, schools, camps, and organizations. But even in the best communities, it’s possible for someone unsafe to slip in unnoticed. That’s why we need each of us — every amazing volunteer and staff member — to not only be safe themselves, and to care for the vulnerable, but to be alert for those who may be unsafe.

Let me share a story that has deeply stuck with me — one that drives home how powerful one person's care can be.

In a busy Orlando restaurant, a waitress noticed something strange: a young boy sat quietly with two adults and a little girl. He wasn’t eating. He wore a mask and hoodie. The adults said he’d eat later, but the waitress noticed bruises on his face and arm.

She had a choice — to ignore her concerns or to act.

She wrote a note and held it where only the boy could see:

“Are you OK?”

The boy shook his head. No.

She wrote a second note:

“Do you need help?”

He nodded. Yes.

The waitress called 911. When authorities arrived, they discovered heartbreaking abuse — the boy had been beaten, denied food, and tortured. He was severely underweight and covered in bruises.

This story is difficult to hear — and yet, it's a stunning example of what it means to be a safe adult.

That waitress didn’t save the world. She saved one child. But to that boy, that was the world.

And here’s the truth: you — whether you are a volunteer or a staff member, have the same power! You are already trusted adults. You’re already present in the lives of children, youth, and vulnerable individuals. And your presence, your attentiveness, your willingness to say something when something doesn’t feel right — that can make all the difference.

We’re not asking you to become detectives. We’re asking you to be:

• Observant
• Empathetic
• Willing to speak up when something seems off

No fear, just love in action. Just people caring enough to notice. Just hearts tuned to protect.

It’s not about suspecting everyone. It’s about refusing to overlook the one who might be hurting in silence.

Let’s be the kind of people who don’t just show up — but who stand up. For safety. For compassion. For the vulnerable.

Let’s be like that waitress — ordinary people, doing the extraordinary: paying attention, and taking action.

If you see something, please say it (share your concern and suspicion with your team leaders). Together, we will sort it out. The Duty to Report Child Abuse is a law that must be followed for the protection of our children.