Protecting the youth we serve
Crossroads of America Council is committed to delivering safe and high-quality programs for more than 30,000 Scouts and their families across 26 counties in central Indiana. Our Council continues to be a leader in independently providing a values-based program that develops the character, ethical behavior and leadership skills of youth.
Boy Scouts of America has some of the strongest barriers to child abuse found in any youth-serving organization, and we are continuously taking proactive measures to safeguard youth. We require two registered adult leaders on all trips and outings, and we do not permit one-on-one contact between adults and youth members. Additionally, the Crossroads of America Council conducts background searches on all adult volunteer applications and requires all registered volunteers to complete Youth Protection Training every two years.
Youth safety requires sustained vigilance by parents, volunteers and the community, especially all youth-serving organizations. The Boy Scouts of America will continue to work every day to protect children through mandatory policies and procedures at every level of our organization.
What to do if you suspect abuse
- Ensure the child is in a safe environment.
- If you suspect child abuse or feel the child might be experiencing a medical emergency, call 911 immediately. Contact the Indiana Department of Child Protective Services at if you suspect abuse in the home or family.
- Notify the council’s Director of Support Services at .
Questions? Call the Scouts First Helpline at or our office at .
Training for Youth & Adults
Over the past two years, Boy Scouts of America has worked with experts in the field of child abuse, child sexual abuse and maltreatment to develop new training and resources that will further strengthen our ability to protect youth. The Boy Scouts of America’s Youth Protection Training is mandatory for all registered adult leaders in all BSA programs.
All adults and parents participating in Scouting are strongly encouraged to take this 90-minute online training; however, you do not have to be a member to take it. Thanks to the Barbara Sinatra Children’s Center Foundation, there is also a “Protect Yourself” training for our youth members that helps them recognize, respond to and report abuse.
Additional Resources
- Read How the Boy Scouts of America Keep Kids Safe Today
- Download BSA’s Ongoing Commitment to Keeping Scouts Safe
- Download BSA’s Barriers to Abuse
- Read from Media: Safe to Join Boy Scouts – Some Parents Say Policy Upgrades Help Prevent Abuse
- View the “Protect Yourself” Training for Youth Members
- View National BSA Youth Safety website