"Please note that the information shared in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only. Nothing discussed should be interpreted as specific legal advice or as creating an attorney-client relationship. If you have questions about your organization or situation, we encourage you to connect with your own local counsel.”

Thank you so much for listening to the first episode of Season 3: Vital Volunteers: Answering the Call! You can find an episode summary, takeaways, below!

Summary:

In this episode of Let's Talk Solutions, host Hunter Pettis discusses the vital role of volunteers in church ministries with Joni Dreher, Claims Manager from Adventist Risk Management, Inc. Joni Dreher shares her experiences and insights on how to effectively engage volunteers, manage risks, and foster a safe environment for church activities. Their conversation also, emphasizes the need for effective communication, the challenges faced by volunteers, and the spiritual significance of volunteering. Listeners are encouraged to take part in serving at their local church and consider the magnitude of their contributions no matter how small.

Key Takeaways:

1. The work of volunteers is crucial for church ministries.
2. Proactive risk management is essential for church safety.
3. Effective communication helps engage church members around safety.
4. Understanding the needs of the church is key to effective volunteering.
5. Safety officers play a vital role in church security.
6. Every small act of service contributes to the churches greater mission.
7. Witnessing through service is a powerful form of ministry.

Episode Resources:

Info Sheets:

1. Checking Volunteer References: Dos and Don’ts
2. The Safety Officers Responsibilities
3. Securing the Church Building
4. Active Shooter Safety Kit
5. Pathfinder Safety Guide
6. Financial Internal Controls

Forms:

1. Volunteer Reference Interview Form: (password: pbmpi6k1)
2. Ministry Volunteer Information Form: (password:...

Thank you so much for listening to episode 5 of Season 2: Protecting Your Digital Identity! You can find an episode summary, takeaways, below!

Summary:

In this episode of Let's Talk Solutions, host Hunter Pettis engages with cybersecurity experts, Darla Avendano, AAI, AU, CYB, Ernest Staats, MSIA, (CISSP)®, CEH, MCSE and Tony Vargas, VP, CIO, CISO, DPO to discuss the critical importance of digital safety for Adventist organizations and members. Our conversation covers foundational definitions of cybersecurity, the threats posed by bad actors, and the value of protecting personal information. Our share practical advice on fortifying digital identities, the impact of cyber-attacks on small church organizations, and the importance of safeguarding children’s online presence. This episode concludes with actionable steps listeners can take to enhance their cybersecurity practices and the significance of preparation in navigating digital risks.

"Please note that the information shared in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only. Nothing discussed should be interpreted as specific legal advice or as creating an attorney-client relationship. If you have questions about your organization or situation, we encourage you to connect with your own local counsel.”

Key Takeaways:

1. Cybersecurity is essential for protecting our digital identities.
2. Bad actors use various tactics to steal information.
3. Information is highly valuable and targeted by cybercriminals.
4. Using unique passwords for different accounts is crucial.
5. Multi-factor authentication adds an extra layer of security.
6. Small organizations are not immune to cyber threats.
7. Children's online safety is a growing concern.
8. Verification of information is key to preventing scams.
9. Regularly updating and patching devices is necessary for security.
10. Preparation and faith go hand in hand in managing risks.

Episode Resources:

Info Sheets:

1. Cybersecurity
2. Cyber Liability
3. Consent Form for Working with Children Online password: xfnfztz4
4. Personal Physical Security Traveling Tips [Information Sentinel] password: vfame75p "Please note that the above resource is provided by Information Sentinel."
5. How...

Thank you so much for listening to episode 4 of Season 2: A Stewardship Approach to Church Liability! You can find an episode summary, takeaways, below!

Summary:

In this episode of Let’s Talk Solutions, host Hunter Pettis and guests Ashley Frazier-Morrison, Esquire, MPA and Leander Tomazeli, AINS, AIS explore the various aspects of liability, including the responsibilities of churches regarding property maintenance, the role of volunteers, the implications of vacant versus unoccupied properties, and playground safety. Join us for this engaging conversation as our team emphasizes that liability is not just a legal issue but a stewardship issue, and encourages church leaders to prioritize risk management and safety in their ministries.

"Please note that the information shared in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only. Nothing discussed should be interpreted as specific legal advice or as creating an attorney-client relationship. If you have questions about your organization or situation, we encourage you to connect with your own local counsel.”

Key Takeaways:

1. Liability is a stewardship issue, not just a legal one.
2. Churches must manage risks to protect their members.
3. Good intentions do not shield churches from liability.
4. Proper documentation is crucial in liability claims.
5. Volunteers should be placed in roles that match their skills.
6. Vacant properties pose significant liability risks.
7. Clear agreements with outside organizations are essential.
8. Regular maintenance of church property is a must.
9. Risk management tools help mitigate potential liabilities.
10. Start with small steps towards better risk management.

Episode Resources:

Sample-Church Rental Agreement

Maintaining Closed Buildings PDF

Solutions Article: Signing Contracts

Solutions Article: How to Maintain a “Closed” Building

Solutions Article: Taking Care of Our Facilities: An Interview with Risk Control Specialist Brian Schwab

Solutions Article: You Need To Know About Renting Your Church

Maintaining Closed Buildings PDF

Solutions Article: Let the Pros Handle It

Solutions Article: The...