Youth Safety & Volunteer Policy

I. Introduction

At Sound Business, Inc. (SBI), the safety and well-being of youth participants are our highest priority. As a nonprofit organization operating within A. Philip Randolph Campus High School, SBI is committed to maintaining a safe, inclusive, and nurturing environment where students can thrive. These policies ensure the protection of all youth engaged in SBI’s programs and provide clear guidelines for volunteers and staff.

II. Zero-Tolerance Policy

SBI maintains a zero-tolerance policy for any form of abuse, harassment, bullying, or misconduct involving youth participants. Any volunteer, staff member, or participant found in violation of this policy will face immediate disciplinary action, including termination of involvement and potential legal consequences.

III. Volunteer Recruitment & Screening

To ensure the safety of our youth participants, all SBI volunteers working directly with students may undergo a thorough screening process, which includes:

Application & Interview

All prospective volunteers may be subject to complete an application to assess their suitability for working with youth.

Background Checks

All volunteers over the age of 18 may be subject to pass a comprehensive criminal background check, including checks against the New York State Sex Offender Registry.

IV. Code of Conduct

Volunteers must always interact with students in an open and observable environment.
One-on-one interactions with students must take place in public spaces or with a second adult present.
Physical contact (e.g., hugs, pats on the back) should be avoided unless in a clearly appropriate, non-invasive manner (e.g., high-fives).
Volunteers are not permitted to transport students in personal vehicles.
Any suspicion or knowledge of misconduct must be immediately reported to SBI leadership and relevant authorities.

V. Supervision & Youth-to-Adult Ratios

All SBI programs will maintain a minimum of a 1:10 adult-to-student ratio for general activities.
Overnight events, field trips, or special events must have at least two background-checked adults present at all times.
Volunteers may never be alone with a student in an enclosed or private space.

VI. Parental & Guardian Involvement

Parental/Guardian Consent: Before students participate in any SBI program, their parent or guardian must sign a Participation & Liability Waiver acknowledging program policies and emergency procedures.
Communication with Guardians: SBI maintains an open-door policy where guardians may request updates on their child’s involvement in programs.
Medical & Emergency Information: Parents must provide up-to-date medical information, emergency contacts, and any special accommodations needed for their child.

VII. Reporting Abuse & Misconduct

All SBI volunteers and staff are mandated reporters and must report suspected abuse, neglect, or misconduct.

Steps for Reporting:

Immediately report concerns to SBI’s Operations Manager and Managing Director.
File a report with the NYC Administration for Children’s Services (ACS) if abuse is suspected.
Cooperate fully with law enforcement and school administration during investigations.
Maintain strict confidentiality regarding any reports or investigations.

Anonymous Reporting:

SBI provides an anonymous reporting mechanism for students, parents, and volunteers to report concerns without fear of retaliation. Reports can be submitted via an online form or a dedicated hotline monitored by the SBI leadership team.

IX. Digital Safety & Privacy

SBI strictly prohibits volunteers from taking photos or videos of students without parental consent. Any photos or videos of students may only be taken by authorized personnel hired by SBI, provided that parents have signed the required waivers in advance..
Student records, personal data, and emergency contact information are stored securely and accessed only by authorized personnel.
Communication between volunteers and students must occur only through SBI-approved platforms (e.g., email, learning portals).

X. Anti-Bullying & Inclusion Policy

SBI fosters a safe and inclusive environment for all students and prohibits all forms of:

Bullying, harassment, or discrimination based on race, gender identity, sexual orientation, disability, or socioeconomic background.
Hazing or initiation activities that put students at risk.

Reporting & Intervention:

SBI staff will investigate all bullying reports and take immediate corrective action if necessary.
Students and volunteers involved in bullying incidents may face suspension or removal from the program.

XI. Legal & Liability Considerations

All volunteers must sign an Acknowledgment of Policies Agreement, confirming they understand and will adhere to SBI’s safety policies.
SBI carries liability insurance for volunteer activities, ensuring coverage in case of unforeseen incidents.
SBI complies with New York State labor laws regarding youth volunteers and working hours.

XII. Policy Enforcement & Review

SBI’s Youth Safety Policy is reviewed annually and updated as needed to align with NYC DOE, state, and federal guidelines. Volunteers and staff will be informed of any updates and required to reaffirm compliance.

For questions or concerns regarding these policies, please contact:

Operations@soundbusiness.org or

646-689-4143