To help protect children, the Iowa Walk to Emmaus (IaWTE) has adopted the following Child and Youth Abuse Prevention Program. It is important that all IaWTE and volunteers understand and implement these guidelines to help prevent sexual abuse against children. The following document includes the Purpose and Definitions for these guidelines, the outlines of Protection and Prevention, and an Acknowledgement to be signed by those people working with children.
The Iowa Walk to Emmaus Board of Directors Resolves to “Serve within the structures and guidelines of The Upper Room Emmaus Ministries programs." The IaWTE affirms that the Emmaus Ministries programs are founded on the Faith of The Gospel of Christ, focuses on the foundational features of Christian faith with the goal of living life in grace, and a new life based on a renewed relationship with God. All Emmaus ministry leaders, lay and clergy, will be selected based on their assurance that they subscribe to this affirmation. They will be further admonished that there is not allowed any discussions, at tables or en mass, about any "hot button" or controversial social issues, such as abortion, homosexuality, political aspirations, immigration, and the like. The team leaders will ensure that team members agree to serve within these boundaries.