Volume I - Core Document 07

Safeguarding & Child Protection

The decentralized accountability model that protects children and the Rotary brand.

1. Statement of Principles

Rotary International is committed to creating and maintaining a safe environment for all young people. For the RotaKids segment (ages 7 to 12), safety is the absolute priority. This framework ensures compliance with the national legislation specific to each jurisdiction.

2. The Decentralized Accountability Model (The Shield)

To eliminate legal risks at the global level (Evanston), the RotaKids program operates under a delegation of responsibility:

  • RI's Role: Provides brand authorization, the educational framework, and general ethical standards.
  • The District's Role: Is the legal authority responsible for implementing and monitoring compliance with local child protection laws (e.g., GDPR in the EU, COPPA in the USA).
  • The Sponsor Club's Role: Directly executes safety protocols at every meeting or event.

3. Safety Protocols by Organizational Model

A. School-Based Model

Legal responsibility for physical and digital safety rests with the educational institution. At least one Faculty Advisor must be present at every activity.

B. Community-Based Model

Responsibility rests exclusively with the Sponsoring Rotary Club. Requires compulsory criminal background checks and the 2-Adult Rule (no adult alone with a child).

4. Data Protection and Digital Identity

  • Local Storage: Member data (name, age, contact details) shall NOT be stored on central RI servers. They remain in secure physical or digital registers of the District or School.
  • Public Image: Photographs may be published only with written parental consent using standard templates.
  • Privacy: Display of a minor's home address or direct contact details on public platforms is strictly prohibited.

5. Incident Procedure

Any suspected breach of child safety must be reported within 24 hours to:

  1. The District Youth Protection Officer.
  2. The relevant local legal authorities.
  3. The District Governor.

Note: RI receives only annual statistical compliance reports, not details of individual cases, to avoid direct legal liability.

6. Mentor Identification

The official Turquoise color (PMS 7466C) shall be used on all mentor badges and safety materials to visually identify adult persons who have completed the verification process (background check).

Official Document
DOWNLOAD PDF
Navigation