Audit: Catholic Diocese of Youngstown complies with child protection policies
An independent audit by StoneBridge Business Partners found that the Catholic Diocese of Youngstown has fully complied with safe environment policies to keep children protected.
Auditors looked at how closely the diocese’s practices followed the Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People, established by the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops in 2022.
Some of the policies include requiring background checks for all clergy, seminarians and employees in parishes, schools and diocesan institutions, as well as all volunteers who work with minors.
“We have made important strides over the past two decades, but we can never let down our guard. We must continue to protect young people, help bring about healing for victim survivors, and build an environment where all are safe and all can grow,” said Bishop David J. Bonnar.
Everyone has to complete safe environment training on how to recognize and prevent abuse, as well as how to respond to allegations of abuse with compassion and competent care.
There’s training about being mandated reporters: immediately telling police about known or suspected child abuse or neglect.
“The audit and data collection process is an important part of the Church’s commitment to protect children and young people,” said Dominic Colucy safe environment coordinator for the Diocese of Youngstown. “We work together to ensure that these individuals have completed safe environment training and any required background checks in accordance with our diocesan Safe Environment Policy. All of our clergy, including the Bishop, are obliged to complete these requirements as well.”
During an on-site audit this fall, StoneBridge conducted interviews with personnel and reviewed diocesan and parish records.
“I want to thank everyone in the church, our pastors, lay ecclesial ministers, and staff, our safe environment coordinators and every member of the faithful, for making sure that we remain vigilant in our efforts to prevent sexual abuse and respond to this evil when it does occur,” said Bishop Bonnar.
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