The CFFP Designation Program is a unique curriculum designed specifically for faith communities. This structured discussion series helps members of religious organizations talk about a subject they care deeply about—meeting children’s physical, emotional, and spiritual needs. Discussions are conducted in an environment that feels private and safe. Each faith community that completes the program is designated as a Charter Member of the Child-Friendly Faith Project and receives valuable marketing support.
This video gives an overview of what the program is about.
Why participate? Religious organizations that take part in the designation program enjoy numerous benefits. Team members gain an understanding of their knowledge of child development, how religious teachings and practices impact children, and their readiness to responsibly respond to cases of child abuse and neglect.
Each participating faith organization is designated as a Charter Member of the CFFP and receives marketing support. This allows the faith community to be promoted and recognized as one that has taken an extra step toward understanding and meeting children’s needs. Many participants see the program as a way to enjoy positive public relations and grow their congregations.
What makes the Designation Program different from other training programs? Discussions are led by a facilitator who is a member of the faith community, not an outsider. He or she follows a step-by-step study guide provided by the CFFP and receives support from a CFFP liaison.
Unlike most educational programs for faith communities, ours doesn’t only cover sexual abuse. Through the reading of case studies, team members discuss all forms of maltreatment and how they are sometimes enabled by religious teachings.
Another unique component of the curriculum is the Charter for Child-Friendly Faith, a set of principles that outlines faith communities’ responsibilities in nurturing children and keeping them safe. Team members discuss the Charter and whether their faith community should adopt it.
Who can participate? Participants are religious organizations of all kinds, including churches, synagogues, and mosques, as well as faith-based educational institutions and youth programs.
How long does it take to complete the curriculum? The program consists of five 90-minute discussions. It’s recommended that these sessions be scheduled about one week apart. So a faith community can complete the program and receive its designation in as little as five weeks.
What does it cost? Participating faith communities will pay a nominal fee. To keep costs as low as possible, we are raising funds through our Crowdrise campaign. You may also make a donation to the CFFP by clicking here.
How do you measure the success of this program? To ensure that the Designation Program meets its goals, team members complete exit surveys that evaluate their increased awareness of issues covered by the curriculum. Facilitators also provide feedback so that the CFFP can continually improve the program.
I’m interested in my faith community participating. How can I help make that happen? Thanks for your interest and caring! There are numerous ways to get started. First, feel free to pass along this link to your faith leader or youth program director or download this flyer. To get in touch with us, please email your inquiry to [email protected]. We’d be happy to meet with you and answer any questions you might have.
Thank for your interest in being part of a Child-Friendly Faith movement!