VISITOR MEMO OF UNDERSTANDING (as of December 20, 2022)

 

Forever Changed International is committed to serving children who have suffered trauma and need the stability of a loving home. By participating in Forever Changed International related activities, I acknowledge that I am perceived as a representative of Forever Changed International, whether as a sponsor/donor/partner or guest, and I therefore agree to conduct myself according to Christian principles in the context of the local culture of the destination country. I agree to uphold the principles communicated by Forever Changed International or local community staff regarding specific behaviors which may be considered offensive or inappropriate in the local context. I acknowledge and agree that any behavior which puts the long-term ministry of Forever Changed International at risk may result in immediate dismissal from Forever Changed International related activities at my sole cost and expense.

EXPECTED/ACCEPTABLE BEHAVIORS

  • I will demonstrate the proper respect and dignity of all children, regardless of their or my gender, age, race, religion, social background, culture, special need or disability.
  • I will maintain appropriate and reasonable expectations for children based on their age and ability level.
  • I will engage in age-appropriate communication with children.
  • I will submit to the appropriate background or police checks as permissible by law prior to face-to-face contact with children.
  • I will engage in activities with children only in open or visible places and be accompanied by a Forever Changed International staff member at all times.
  • I will follow Forever Changed International’s rules about communication with children, including social media interaction.
    o All communication must be coordinated through Forever Changed International.
    o I am not permitted to share my contact information such as email address, phone number, or social media contact with Forever Changed International children.
    o I will not ask for a child or family’s personal contact information.
    o I may not accept a contact or “friend” request from a child through any social media or online platform.
  • I will follow Forever Changed International’s dignity standards regarding taking photographs of children, families, and community members.
    o Ask permission to photograph or film.
    o Only photograph people who are dressed appropriately [no nudity or excessive exposure, no visible underwear, etc.).
    o Do not photograph children who are visibly ill, excessively dirty due to neglect, or appear uncomfortable or embarrassed to be photographed.
  • I will be careful about my appearance, language, and actions, to ensure that my behavior demonstrates a respect for children, their culture, and their rights and follow recommendations provided.

UNACCEPTABLE BEHAVIORS

  • I will not solicit a romantic/dating relationship with any child, regardless of age.
  • I will not solicit a romantic/dating relationship with any staff member.
  • I will not consume or possess alcohol or tobacco (including smokeless and vape-type products) products on Dorie’s Promise property or in the presence of children in the care of Forever Changed International.
  • I will never use language that is verbally/emotionally abusive, sexually suggestive, degrading, humiliating, shaming or is otherwise culturally inappropriate with a child.
  • I will not touch children in an inappropriate or culturally insensitive way. An example could include flirtatious holding hands between teen participants and teen residents.
  • I will never use any kind of physical discipline or physical punishment as a method of correction for children.
  • I will never travel alone with a child, without a Forever Changed International representative.
  • I will not keep or share private and personal information about children or their families, such as health status or history of abuse, without permission from Forever Changed International.
  • I will not condone or participate in illegal, unsafe or abusive behavior of any child, including exploitation, trafficking, harmful traditional practices, and spiritual or ritualistic abuse.
  • I will not engage in any inquiry, conversation, or other communication that in any way undermines the credibility, authority, or responsibility of Forever Changed International as the legal guardians and representatives of the children in its care. This includes but is not limited to any suggestions, assertions, or promises of future international travel, educational opportunities, gifts, or other considerations shared with children under Forever Changed International’s care.

GENERAL ACKNOWLEDGEMENT AND STATEMENT OF COMMITMENT

I acknowledge that:

  • I have received a copy of Forever Changed International’s Memo of Understanding.
  • I recognize that the Memo of Understanding outlines Forever Changed International’s expectations of me in my service, participation, and/or association with Forever Changed International.
  • I have read and fully understand the content of the Memo of Understanding.
  • I am aware that if I violate the Memo of Understanding I may be subject to organizational disciplinary measures including termination of sponsorship and any other associations I have with Forever Changed International.
  • I understand that any violation by me may subject me to civil and/or criminal proceedings according to applicable local laws, as well as US laws applicable to citizens travelling abroad.

 I do hereby commit myself to fully abide by all elements of Forever Changed International’s Memo of Understanding as they relate to my service, employment, participation, and/or association with Forever Changed International, its employees, children, and partners.