National audit shows diocese in full compliance with child protection charter

The independent audit was commissioned by the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops and was conducted by the Gavin Group of Boston, MA. The results were released Jan. 6, at a press conference at the National Press Club in Washington, D.C.

The compliance audit was conducted to determine whether the dioceses are implementing the "charter." The audit reviewed how the diocese fared in their efforts to integrated the "Charter’s" standards into their diocesan administration. It considered only the actions taken since the adoption of the "Charter" in June, 2002.

The Diocese established the "To Protect God’s Children" program in the summer of 2003. Every adult connected with a parish, school or agency in the Catholic Diocese of Dodge City attended a forum designed to prevent the abuse of children. The "To Protect God’s Children" program identifies the warning signs of abuse and teaches strategies for maintaining safe environments for children.

"When adults who interact with children increase their awareness of child sexual abuse, they form a shield that protects children," stated the Most Reverend Ronald M. Gilmore, bishop of Dodge City.

"That shield is a network of adults alert to potentially abusive situations and children with the confidence to speak up. Participants learned how to discuss different aspects of abuse, including sexual abuse, with children and how to teach them to protect themselves."

In addition to the community forums, the Diocese required all employees and volunteers who work with children to complete the training. It is the intent that every minister, educator, youth worker, and employee attend a forum. To strengthen the program, those who attend(ed) the forums participate in an on-line continuing education program. Background checks have been conducted on all clergy working in the diocese, and either have been or are being conducted on the employees and volunteers.

If you or someone you know may have been a victim of sexual abuse by clergy or any employee of the Diocese of Dodge City, you are asked to contact Mr. Dave Snapp, Fitness Review Administrator: (620) 225-5051 work, (620) 225-2412 home, or e-mail at dsnapp3 @starrtech.net. You always have the right to directly contact SRS. Their hotline number is 1-800-922-5330.

The full report on the implementation of the "Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People" is available online at www.usccb.org.