Sexuality is a huge and important part of being human, yet for many people it’s a source of the deepest kind of emotional pain.
Rescue Missions, perhaps more than other workplaces, deal with people who have been victimized, abused, had their sexuality monetized, have folks who have used their sexuality to manipulate, use, gain advantage. In addition, we serve people who are at a huge power/authority disadvantage in society. They have nothing and are struggling just to make it.
This puts an even great importance, in my mind, on creating a safe, ASEXUAL, environment for our clients. The Bible tells us to treat each other like brother and sister, which should be an example of a totally asexual relationship between people of the opposite sex. Over the years we’ve come to know that for some of our clients, even family relationships were sexualized and abusive.
This creates an even great impetus to go the extra mile to have strong, safe boundaries with those we serve.
A safe environment includes the following:
1. Common Standards. Volunteer or paid, we ask that everyone who serves at the Rescue Mission refrain from looking for, building, or participating in building intimate relationships with our clients. If this is difficult for you, then the Rescue Mission is not the place for you. Even Volunteers? Yes, even volunteers. We ask volunteers to assume responsibility and perform important roles, but this also means that they must understand that they are not to sexualize or consider personal relationships with our clients. Any staff who can be proven have inappropriate relationships with clients will be let go immediately. Any volunteer who does so will be removed from service as well.
2. Transparency. No relationships with clients should be hidden, offline, or private in nature. If they aren’t transparent then there is a opportunity for abuse.
3. Correct Use of Authority. Never using your position or power to give extra advantages or change rules to accomodate someone you have personal feelings for. In addition, NEVER using your authority as an advantage in building a relationship.
Certainly there are more good boundaries. What have I left out? How important is this to you and what can non-profits do to create safe environments for their clients?
David Curry.
