Escolar Documentos
Profissional Documentos
Cultura Documentos
Manual
SECTION I:
CRISIS MANAGEMENT
OVERVIEW
SECTION II:
POLICIES
SECTION III:
GUIDELINES
CRISIS MANAGEMENT:
INTRODUCTION
We live in a dangerous, fallen world. Yet, Christians have been given a charge – to go into all the world,
making disciples. As Christians, we may not shy away from that charge. However, if while working abroad, a
crisis or accident were to occur, the damage to the church (organization) and its future missions effort could be
catastrophic. Accordingly, we must find methods to respond to the charge of the Great Commission that will
protect and preserve those in ministry to the extent reasonably possible. Webster’s dictionary defines crisis as
a time of great danger or trouble, whose outcome decides whether possible bad consequences will follow.
Interesting to note is the origin of the word, Greek, krisis – to separate.
This is not a new or unique situation for the Church. Examples of what is now labeled “risk management”
abound in the Scriptures, particularly in the missions context. When the King asked Nehemiah what he needed
to make his trip to repair the wall, Nehemiah’s response revealed planning that had been months in the
making. Nehemiah asked for an escort (safety), permission to go (sending) and letters authorizing the clearing
of timber (supplies). Nehemiah’s plan included risk management. He knew that it would be dangerous to make
the trip without the King’s armed guards. He realized that he would be safer if sent by the King, as any enemy
that would attack him would also be attacking the strong King. In modern terms, the risk management
strategy employed by Nehemiah would be “deterrence”. Nehemiah identified the risk, made an assessment
that it could not be avoided or eliminated, and then crafted a response to mitigate against the risk becoming a
reality. Analysis of the response by Nehemiah shows that where risk is defined as the severity of the harm
multiplied by the likelihood of occurrence, Nehemiah took steps to minimize the likelihood of occurrence where
he could not change the severity of the harm.
Another example can be found from the apostle Paul. In Acts 17, Paul was in Thessalonica, where there were a
large number of people who were looking to kill him. His supporters urged him not to stay in the town any
longer, but to leave by night – that night. The plan of the supporters of Paul was really risk management. The
risk was seen as severe – death, and, if no action taken, imminent – the next day. The strategy employed was
“avoidance”, removing the risk from the realm of possibility. Here, employing that strategy required the
termination of ministry and the evacuation of Paul from that town.
Other Biblical examples abound: Paul being led by the Spirit not to go to the Providence of Asia (Acts 16:6),
Phillip seeing no threat in speaking to the Eunuch (Acts 8:27), the poor risk assessment by those that preceded
the good Samaritan (Luke 10), to name but a few. The point is that getting serious about incorporating risk
management into the short-term missions context is not new, nor is it optional. The issue is really how well
and intentionally it will be done.
The importance of preparing ahead of a missions effort for crisis and emergency situations is succinctly
articulated in the section 4.2 of the Standards of Excellence in Short-term Missions:
Consider inherent and potential risks of the STM to outreach design and field.
Develop crisis response plans, adequately inform participants of potential risks, and train our
leaders and all other participants as appropriate in crisis management.
Develop policies and procedures, covering insurance, medical contingencies, security,
evacuation, terrorism or political violence, behavior and dress guidelines, misconduct and
grievances, stress management, and conflict resolution.
Communicate and implement these plans, policies, and procedures as appropriate.
This standard reflects a need for anticipating and preparing for crisis and emergency situations. Such
anticipation is an essential first step in beginning to craft a meaningful and effective response to deal with these
types of problems. Establishing a framework that can be mapped and implemented by others is the purpose of
this publication.
Obviously, it is impossible to provide boilerplate, “off the shelf” policies and procedures that will fit all venues,
circumstances and the needs of all groups. No two risk management polices should look exactly the same.
One size does not fit all, as different groups will have differing amounts of resources and personnel to devote to
the effort. Instead of writing model policies for whole scale adoption, the guidelines here have been developed
and designed to assist churches and agencies identify and think through risk management issues, matching
response protocol to specific needs and personnel strengths.
The material presented here is ordered in a manner that will build and establish a risk management
methodology that can be integrated into a full missions policy or program. Using this tool, a risk management
policy that is written clearly and easily understandable can be created. Such a policy will establish roles, convey
purpose, develop preventative procedures, produce guidelines for actions and a means for evaluation and
recovery from known, foreseeable hazards and dangerous situations. Issues of where and how to begin, with a
focus on communication and unity for the preservation of ministry, are systematically brought to the attention
of those responsible for creating and implementing missions policy for the local church.
The document here, like that which it encourages to be created, is a work in progress. As more expertise in
the area of missions is exposed to the benefits of risk management, new and better methods will be developed.
Sharing of any work product created from use of this publication with the author would be gratefully accepted
for the sharpening of this tool, all for the end that the Lord God would be glorified, and His name carried to
every part of the earth.
Where in Scripture does one find support for a missions risk management plan?
Stewardship concepts – Prov. 19:2: “It is not good to have zeal without knowledge, nor to be hasty and
miss the way.”
Unity principles – Proverbs 20:18: “Make plans by seeking advice; if you wage war, obtain guidance.”
Better decisions when many Godly people are involved – Proverbs 19:20: “Listen to advice and accept
instruction, and in the end you will be wise.”
Be a blessing – James 3:17-18: “But the wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure; then
peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere. Peacemakers
who sow in peace raise harvest of righteousness. “
Maintain witness – I Peter 5:6-11: Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that He
may lift you up in due time. Cast all your anxiety on Him because he cares for you. Be self-controlled
and alert. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. Resist
him, standing firm in the faith, because you know that your brothers throughout the world are
undergoing the same kind of sufferings. And the God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory in
Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will Himself restore you and make you strong, firm and
steadfast. To Him be the power for ever and ever. Amen.”
To allow bold ministry – Acts 1:8: “But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and
you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.”
To do ministry decently and in order – I Corinthians 14:40: “But everything should be done in a fitting
and orderly way.”
DISCLAIMER
This Risk Management policy is a self-expression of the expectations that SOI has of itself in responding to a
crisis situation. Any review, legal or otherwise, should involve a post incident examination of performance in
relation to what the policy has stated is the expected standard of operation. To avoid being second-guessed
through use of the Risk Management policy, it is necessary to be clear that the policy is not a contract requiring
action by its terms.
It is intended that this manual be reviewed, pre-field, with all Goers and Senders. This policy is not a contract
and is not intended to give any person any legal rights. Furthermore, the SOI realizes that it is impossible to
predict and consider all inherent or potential risks in short term missions. In no way should this manual be
interpreted that Sports Outreach Institute is guaranteeing the safety of participants. SOI cannot and is not
guaranteeing the safety of participants in its mission programs. Finally, the purpose of the policy is for the
protection of Sports Outreach Institute, Inc.
REVISION TRACKING
DATE PRESENTED: April 25, 2008 by the Board of Directors at the stated semi-annual meeting.
DATE REVISED:
CRISIS OVERVIEW
PHASES OF A CRISIS
1. Prodromal (pre-crisis phase) – a crisis waiting to happen. Any time you are not in a crisis is a prodromal
phase.
2. Acute – the most stressful time of the crisis. This is the time at which the organization must 'jell together' to
initiate the resolution of the crisis.
3. Crisis resolution
4. Crisis recovery
COMPONENTS OF A CRISIS
1. Historical review – consider/apply lessons from past successes as well as previous mistakes.
2. Present – plan for current crisis resolution.
3. Future – assessment component, heighten awareness of potential crisis/risk situations.
"This, after all, is the height of effective crisis management – crisis avoidance techniques... But what makes the
recognition of a Prodromal situation so imperative to successful Crisis Management is that only a Prodrom can
be aborted... Only a pre-crisis can be averted. Once the Acute Crisis hits, there is no turning back."
Steven Fink, CRISIS MANAGEMENT, PLANNING FOR THE INEVITABLE, American Management Assoc.
REVISION TRACKING
DATE PRESENTED: April 25, 2008 by the Board of Directors at the stated semi-annual meeting.
DATE REVISED:
CHARACTERISTICS
1. Consists of the fewest members possible, for efficient and simple crisis resolution.
2. A temporary task force.
3. Internally, the members should represent a variety of approaches and strategies to problem solving.
4. Externally, the members must present a united and consolidated "front," and must support the CMT action.
5. It should be the ONLY part of the organization working on the crisis.
STAFFING
Each crisis is unique, and the staffing needs for each must be considered.
However, follow these guidelines when selecting CMT staff:
1. Identify the functional areas that need to be staffed in a particular crisis
2. Select appropriate personnel with requisite knowledge, skills, and personal traits for each functional area.
SELECTION CRITERIA
1. Possession of the skills, knowledge, expertise and gifts related to the position to be staffed
2. The maturity, stability and support system of the individual
3. Prior experience working with a CMT
4. Ability to work as a member of a team
5. A demonstrated ability and willingness to make "tough" decisions
6. Availability of the individual to the CMT for an indefinite period
7. The willingness of the individual to participate on the CMT
DISQUALIFIERS
1. Being related to a victim
2. Personal disagreement with corporate policies related to the crisis
3. Illness, stress, or other personal considerations
CONSULTANTS OR ADVISORS
• Appropriate in many cases
• Should never be decision-makers
• Frequently include:
o Hostage negotiators
o Crisis Management specialists
o Legal advisors
o Media relations specialists
REVISION TRACKING
DATE PRESENTED: April 25, 2008 by the Board of Directors at the stated semi-annual meeting.
DATE REVISED:
There are eight steps to the crisis resolution process, each step is expanded below:
1. Recognition and acknowledgment of the crisis
2. Containment of the crisis
3. Isolation of the crisis
4. Assessment of the crisis
5. Plan the response
6. Implement the plan
7. Evaluate and modify the plan as necessary
8. Close the crisis
REVISION TRACKING
DATE PRESENTED: April 25, 2008 by the Board of Directors at the stated semi-annual meeting.
DATE REVISED:
Project leaders have considered what actions can be taken to reduce known risks associated with this
project, in accordance with stated policy, and have taken those actions that are reasonable.
Critical
High
Moderate
Low
Project leaders have conducted pre-trip inspections of the project site, evaluating logistics and
operational details (in many cases, this is accomplished through communication with SOI’s international
field staff and through previous trips to our field locations).
REVISION TRACKING
DATE PRESENTED: April 25, 2008 by the Board of Directors at the stated spring 2008 semi-annual meeting.
DATE REVISED:
PREFACE
Experience has shown that in cases of kidnapping and hostage taking, rapid relocation of family members away
from the area of the event is strongly advised. Having such a policy is a significant comfort to hostages, who
report that uncertainty about the location and status of their families was the primary worry and source of
anxiety during their captivity. Experience has also clearly demonstrated that such an action is in the best
interest of these families (especially ones with younger children). Lastly, experience has shown that the
presence of family members at the immediate site of crisis management and hostage negotiation efforts can
create distractions and situations that divert the attention and energy of those responsible for resolution of the
event away from that primary responsibility.
SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION
In cases where this policy is invoked, SOI will make ongoing support and assistance to the family a priority.
This will include establishing a regular system of providing timely and accurate information to the family on the
status of the case and the work of the Crisis Management Team. This support will also include insuring that
adequate pastoral, emotional and psychological support is provided.
REVISION TRACKING
DATE PRESENTED: April 25, 2008 by the Board of Directors at the stated spring 2008 semi-annual meeting.
DATE REVISED:
PREFACE
In cases of kidnapping and hostage taking, Sports Outreach Institute understands that the local (host)
government has authority and responsibility for such crimes that occur within the country. We are also aware
that the home government (government of citizenship) of the hostage(s) has a legitimate interest, and perhaps
even legal jurisdiction, in these foreign kidnappings or hostage takings of their citizens. However, we recognize
that in some of these cases in some countries, the involvement of governments may create a conflict with our
objectives and values.
REVISION TRACKING
DATE PRESENTED: April 25, 2008 by the Board of Directors at the stated spring 2008 semi-annual meeting.
DATE REVISED:
SPORTS OUTREACH INSTITUTE CRISIS MANUAL | NOTIFICATIONS TO GOVERNMENTS IN KIDNAPPING AND HOSTAGE TAKING POLICY # 02
DATE PRESENTED: APRIL 25, 2008 [SPORTS OUTREACH INSTITUTE CRISIS MANAGEMENT MANUAL]
PREFACE
Sports Outreach Institute recognizes that payment of ransom, acquiescing to other demands in kidnapping and
hostage-taking cases, and making concessions in the face of extortion are all actions that contribute to the
probability that similar future events will occur. Put another way, we understand that payment of ransom or
similar actions that make the underlying event a "success" in the minds of the perpetrators will create
incentives to encourage the same perpetrators, or others, to commit similar acts in the future.
SOI places a high value on the safety of its team members, staff and families, and in cases of kidnapping or
hostage-taking desires to take all reasonable steps to secure the safe release of the hostage(s).
SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION
In specific cases, it shall be the responsibility of the Crisis Management Team to determine whether or not a
proposed payment or concession complies with both the letter and spirit of this policy. If the Crisis Management
Team cannot reach a consensus on this policy as it applies to a specific proposed concession, or if a proposed
concession would likely be viewed by the broad Christian community as violating the spirit of this policy, the
proposed payment or concession shall be reviewed by SOI Board of Directors prior to the proposed payment of
concession being agreed to or made.
REVISION TRACKING
DATE PRESENTED: April 25, 2008 by the Board of Directors at the stated spring 2008 semi-annual meeting.
DATE REVISED:
SPORTS OUTREACH INSTITUTE CRISIS MANUAL | PAYMENT OF RANSOM, YIELDING TO EXTORTION POLICY # 03
DATE PRESENTED: APRIL 25, 2008 [SPORTS OUTREACH INSTITUTE CRISIS MANAGEMENT MANUAL]
PREFACE
SOI recognizes the distinction between negotiations and payments or concessions in cases of kidnapping and
hostage-taking. We understand that negotiations can be conducted without necessarily obligating the
organization to make payments or concessions that violate our values and policies. We also understand that
negotiations, if they can be effectively and competently conducted, are the strategy of first choice in cases of
kidnapping and hostage taking.
This organization also recognizes that hostage negotiations are a very specialized and a potentially dangerous
activity.
The Crisis Management Team (CMT) is the only authorized group to conduct negotiations as the CMT may
deem necessary to save the life or lives and effect the release of any staff or team member abducted during
official ministry outreach of SOI (i.e., during an SOI mission trip). In cases where SOI has the opportunity to
negotiate for the safe return of hostages, we will seek assistance from professional hostage negotiators.
SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION
A source of hostage negotiation consultation and assistance is the non-profit organization, Crisis Consulting
International, providing support to international Christian organizations:
REVISION TRACKING
DATE PRESENTED: April 25, 2008 by the Board of Directors at the stated spring 2008 semi-annual meeting.
DATE REVISED:
SPORTS OUTREACH INSTITUTE CRISIS MANUAL | NEGOTIATION WITH KIDNAPPERS AND HOSTAGE TAKERS POLICY # 04
DATE PRESENTED: APRIL 25, 2008 [SPORTS OUTREACH INSTITUTE CRISIS MANAGEMENT MANUAL]
PREFACE
The intention of this policy is to address those components of evacuation planning and decision making that
can be identified before a crisis occurs. One of the most critical (and potentially divisive) elements of evacuation
decision-making is determining who has the authority to mandate an evacuation. Experience has demonstrated
that those on the field and close to the situation will have perspectives that tend to prioritize different factors
than those in leadership roles and more geographically removed from the events.
Experience has also shown that in some cases, those closest to the scene will have access to the best
information to support an evacuation decision, but in other cases this information will be denied to them and
will only be available to those more removed from the event.
This policy is multi-lateral: Just as headquarters will support an on-field team leader’s decision to evacuate, so
will team leaders support a directive from local leadership or headquarters authority to do so.
REVISION TRACKING
DATE PRESENTED: April 25, 2008 by the Board of Directors at the stated spring 2008 semi-annual meeting.
DATE REVISED:
PREFACE
The intention of this policy is to address those components of evacuation planning and decision making that
can be identified before a crisis occurs. Experience shows that training and contingency planning ahead of time
will often times make the difference between successful and safe evacuations and those that endanger
members and result in unnecessary organizational disruption.
REVISION TRACKING
DATE PRESENTED: April 25, 2008 by the Board of Directors at the stated spring 2008 semi-annual meeting.
DATE REVISED:
PREFACE
Accurately and adequately understanding risk is the essential foundation for all contingency planning and
security preparation and management. A commitment to understanding risk is an essential component of our
overall member care and security management efforts. Such a commitment requires the use of a disciplined
and structured protocol of risk assessment.
We also recognize that it is important that measures or descriptions of risk and danger be in a form that is as
objective and quantifiable as possible, and that the descriptive criteria used be as standardized as possible (so
the same term or description applied to one situation or country means essentially the same thing in another
situation or country).
Finally, we realize that there are two distinct types of risk assessment: Tactical assessment, which analyzes the
present situation and identifies threats and vulnerabilities that are here and now; and strategic risk forecasting
which forecasts future risks and predicts both the probability and consequences of unwanted events occurring.
We appreciate that both types of risk assessment are necessary for the most comprehensive and accurate
understanding of risks and dangers facing the organization.
The frequency of both strategic and tactical risk assessments is to be increased if:
¾ There is a significant change in the environment (change of government, substantial political shift,
threat or outbreak of war, etc.)
¾ The assessed risk/threat level is such that field, regional or headquarters leadership determines that a
more frequent risk assessment schedule is appropriate.
REVISION TRACKING
DATE PRESENTED: April 25, 2008 by the Board of Directors at the stated spring 2008 semi-annual meeting.
DATE REVISED:
PREFACE
This organization recognizes the need for contingency planning as a major component of security and crisis
management. Contingency plans assist the organization not only in responding to events that have occurred,
but also assist the organization identify and implement proactive steps that seek to reduce both the probability
of unwanted events occurring and the consequences and impact of those events should they in fact occur.
Risk assessments done by local entities will determine specific threats and situations requiring advance
contingency planning. However, there are some areas that are sufficiently common and foreseeable that all
entities need corresponding contingency plans.
Finally, there is significant benefit in the use of contingency plan formats that are consistent throughout the
organization.
Current contingency plans for the following situations shall be completed and maintained for all entities:
¾ Evacuation of team members / US Staff (both local and country-wide)
¾ Establishing and operating a Crisis Management Team
¾ Information management during a Crisis
"Current" contingency plans are those that remain consistent with the threat, environment and organizational
conditions and resources. Contingency plans are to be reviewed at least every two years and either modified as
necessary or certified as still current. Increased risk and dynamic local conditions may require more frequent
review and modification.
REVISION TRACKING
DATE PRESENTED: April 25, 2008 by the Board of Directors at the stated spring 2008 semi-annual meeting.
DATE REVISED:
PREFACE
The most effective security and crisis management activities are those that prevent unwanted occurrences, or
reduce the impact/consequences of unpreventable events. Training of personnel is one of the most valuable
and effective proactive steps an organization can take. Trained personnel are the most successful at minimizing
their own exposure to danger, and trained personnel assist the organization avoid dangerous, disruptive and
compromising situations.
All leadership personnel shall receive training in (at least) the following areas:
¾ The organization's policies
¾ Evacuation procedures
¾ Basic personal safety and security
REVISION TRACKING
DATE PRESENTED: April 25, 2008 by the Board of Directors at the stated spring 2008 semi-annual meeting.
DATE REVISED:
PREFACE
In the event of a crisis or emergency, the existence of a predetermined and structured response should greatly
speed resolution and recovery, as well as minimize the overall disruption to the organization. SOI believes that
the absence of such a plan may not only hinder this organization's ability to resolve the crisis, but also may
create new and additional crises that can ultimately be more disruptive than the original event.
We recognize that even in the face of a significant crisis or major emergency, the primary objective of the
organization is to continue its work and to be as productive as possible in accomplishment of its objectives as
God allows.
For these reasons, we acknowledge the importance and wisdom of a predetermined organizational response
plan for crises and emergencies.
For purposes of this policy, a "crisis" is understood to include events that threaten the organization, that
present a danger to the safety of staff and travelers or the potential for significant organizational disruption,
that are likely to be extended in time and are likely to require an abnormal commitment of resources.
A CMT can be established by International Headquarters leadership or the Executive Committee of the Board of
Directors for any event whose foreseeable organizational impact is likely to extend beyond the local entity.
Members of the Crisis Management Team are selected based on the guidelines provided in this manual.
When a CMT is established, it is to be the only component of the organization "working" on that crisis. All other
components and members of the organization shall refer all information and suggestions to the CMT. No action
related to the crisis is to be taken without the authorization of the CMT. No public statements related to the
crisis are to be made without the authorization of the CMT.
The specific functions of the CMT are outlined in this manual. In addition to those functions, the CMT is the
only group authorized to speak on behalf of SOI in matters relating to the crisis to media, government,
insurance officials, and family members. The CMT should have a set budget for expenses related to resolving
the crisis. The CMT is authorized to select/hire/retain experts and consultants as necessary and the CMT is
authorized to make final decisions as to strategy and tactics in resolving the crisis.
REVISION TRACKING
DATE PRESENTED: April 25, 2008 by the Board of Directors at the stated spring 2008 semi-annual meeting.
DATE REVISED:
PREFACE
It is the intention of this policy that information flow during a crisis be carefully and strictly directed and
controlled. Incoming information such as background information, suggestions about resources and assistance,
ideas for resolution, etc. need to be received by the Crisis Management Team. Outgoing information must be
monitored and controlled to prevent the release of confidential information, to prevent exacerbation of the
situation or the creation of secondary crises and to control the spread of rumors.
It is further the policy of this organization that during a crisis all information released, and all public statements
about the crisis be made by (or with the specific approval of) the Crisis Management Team. No member of the
organization outside the CMT is authorized to make any statement that relates in any way to an ongoing crisis.
This includes statements to internal constituencies (other members, families, etc.) as well as external
constituencies (the media, extended family, home churches, government agencies, etc.).
REVISION TRACKING
DATE PRESENTED: April 25, 2008 by the Board of Directors at the stated spring 2008 semi-annual meeting.
DATE REVISED:
PREFACE
It is the intention of this policy to recognize that individuals, who undergo traumatic events, and others
associated with these events, can suffer emotional reactions that may become destructive if untreated. It is the
intention of this policy that those involved in traumatic events receive evaluation and, if necessary, intervention
from mental health professionals.
It is the also intention of this policy that this evaluation and intervention be conducted confidentially with the
objective being the treatment of existing trauma and the prevention of future trauma associated with the crisis.
These evaluations and any treatment are confidential between the member of the organization and the mental
health professional. Costs associated with this policy shall be paid by the organization. Although the individuals
who should receive evaluation as described herein may vary from incident to incident, in each case at least the
victim and the immediate family shall receive this evaluation.
In situations involving large numbers of members, such as group evacuations, the use of a supervised Critical
Incident Stress Debriefing may fulfill the requirements of this policy (providing the C.I.S.D. incorporates a
mechanism for recognition of the need, and provision for accomplishing, follow-up counseling or therapy as
needed).
REVISION TRACKING
DATE PRESENTED: April 25, 2008 by the Board of Directors at the stated spring 2008 semi-annual meeting.
DATE REVISED:
PREFACE
Minimizing risk equates to minimizing legal exposure. Legal exposure to a short term sending agency may arise
from a host of relationships, ranging from team members, their families, hosts, or intended beneficiaries for
negligent acts or omissions, or intentional misconduct or vicarious liability, which can be greatly compounded
by the fact that actions and decisions occur in a foreign country.
Furthermore, risk to the organization is often posed by the possibility of litigation for injury to members of the
mission team. An effective legal technique to shield the organization from this risk is a signed release of
liability. A waiver is valid only if entered into knowingly, and may not be signed by minors themselves.
Additionally, the following efforts should be taken to enhance the legal acceptability of these signed documents,
particularly the liability waivers/releases:
• Discuss during training meeting
• All team members sign at one time, in the presence of one another
• Pre-distribute waiver before signing date to allow for time for review and formulation of questions
• Have parents of minors attend training meeting when waiver is to be signed
• Explain the “legalize”
REVISION TRACKING
DATE PRESENTED: April 25, 2008 by the Board of Directors at the stated semi-annual meeting.
DATE REVISED:
SPORTS OUTREACH INSTITUTE CRISIS MANUAL | DOCUMENTATION AND LEGAL PROTECTION POLICY # 13
GUIDELINES
DATE PRESENTED: APRIL 25, 2008 [SPORTS OUTREACH INSTITUTE CRISIS MANAGEMENT MANUAL]
PREFACE
Risk must first be uncovered and identified before assessment can occur. Many sources are available to make a
determination of risk. An undertaking of these sources, and a review of the intended mission, should be
required to be completed before a team heads out to the field.
GUIDELINES
What steps must be taken to uncover risks of a Short Term Mission Trip to safety, mission and organization?
Consider these possibilities:
• Answer the question of “What could go wrong?” with specifics
• Prepare list of activities, situations that could lead to injury, damage, or extra expense
• Review governmental web sites regarding political climate and travel advisories
• Review media outlets for current events, crime statistics
• Review weather forecasts
• Consult with SOI’s international field leaders
• Contact other sending mission agencies
REVISION TRACKING
DATE PRESENTED: April 25, 2008 by the Board of Directors at the stated semi-annual meeting.
DATE REVISED:
PREFACE
In searching for sources to identify risk, an invaluable source is our ministry leaders in each country. They know
the ministry, country, culture, current events that will surround the missions team. This contact should take
place on multiple occasions before the team departs and can be made by phone or Internet, but a record of the
findings should be kept.
GUIDELINES
To understand and minimize risk, confirm in country travel arrangements:
• Establish credentials of drivers
• Discuss locale for ministry
• Understand food preparations
• Assure adequate clean water
• Discuss security arrangements
• Understand availability of Nationals in ministry and for language interpretation
• Know of living arrangements
• Ask about available medical care, hospitals, cost of care arrangements, police response
• Inquire about any safety concerns the local ministry staff might have
REVISION TRACKING
DATE PRESENTED: April 25, 2008 by the Board of Directors at the stated semi-annual meeting.
DATE REVISED:
SPORTS OUTREACH INSTITUTE CRISIS MANUAL | PRE-FIELD CONTACT WITH SOI FIELD MINISTRY LEADERS GUIDELINES
DATE PRESENTED: APRIL 25, 2008 [SPORTS OUTREACH INSTITUTE CRISIS MANAGEMENT MANUAL]
PREFACE
In searching for sources to identify risk, an invaluable source is SOI ministry leaders in each country. They
know the ministry, country, culture, current events that will surround the missions team. This contact should
take place on multiple occasions before the team departs and can be made by phone or Internet. Record
contacts, detail findings.
GUIDELINES
What is to happen when leadership is informed of an ongoing crisis or emergency to a short-term mission team
in the field?
REVISION TRACKING
DATE PRESENTED: April 25, 2008 by the Board of Directors at the stated semi-annual meeting.
DATE REVISED: 4/11/08 DJH
SPORTS OUTREACH INSTITUTE CRISIS MANUAL | INITIAL CRISIS MANAGEMENT RESPONSE GUIDELINES
DATE PRESENTED: APRIL 25, 2008 [SPORTS OUTREACH INSTITUTE CRISIS MANAGEMENT MANUAL]
PREFACE
Information control is essential during the resolution of an emergency. All interested parties must know who it
is that speaks for the organization. All must know where information must go to be included in the decision
making process. Information may be sensitive, confidential, have legal implications, and have an untrustworthy
source or impact the ability to bring the matter to a close. Accordingly, the communication manager of the
crisis management team must be designated as the sole spokesperson for the organization during the crisis.
GUIDELINES
Consider the following when determining what information should be made available by the organization during
an emergency, and when and how that information is to be released:
• All media inquiry should be referred to the crisis communication designee.
• All changes in the status of the event should be directed to the crisis management team.
• The crisis communication designee is the only individual authorized to release information
• The crisis communication designee is to release information only at the direction and at the timing
desired by the crisis management team.
• Any contacts with professionals or governments need to originate with the crisis management team.
• The crisis communication designee has the responsibility to keep the family members of those involved
up to date as authorized by the crisis management team.
REVISION TRACKING
DATE PRESENTED: April 25, 2008 by the Board of Directors at the stated semi-annual meeting.
DATE REVISED: April 14, 2008 djh
ACCIDENT INVESTIGATION
PREFACE
After a response to a crisis or emergency is completed, a learning post-mortem should be undertaken. The
effort is to determine the cause of the emergency so that if possible, steps can be implemented to avoid a
repeat of the situation. The intent is not to assess blame, and, due to legal implications, should be done in
conjunction with legal counsel. Further, the investigation should encompass how well the policy served the
organization, and how the decision makers performed during the event. The investigator should be empowered
to complete a written report of the matter, answering pre-determined questions.
GUIDELINES
Who should lead the investigation, and how wide should the scope of the investigation be?
Depending on the nature of the crisis/incident, one of the following should be selected to lead the investigation
and decisions on how wide the scope of the investigation should be can be shared:
• A board member(s) not involved in the crisis management / decision making process
• The Executive Director
• The Crisis Management Team chair
• Legal Counsel
• An outside consultant appointed by the board or executive director
REVISION TRACKING
DATE PRESENTED: April 25, 2008 by the Board of Directors at the stated semi-annual meeting.
DATE REVISED: 4/11/08 DJH
PREFACE
The post-incident investigation is to determine not only the cause of the crisis, but the damage to the
organization. Damage should be quantified wherever possible. Cost estimates should be established. This
effort may assist in presenting a claim for insurance reimbursement as well as determine the ability of the
organization to continue be effective in a sphere of ministry.
GUIDELINES
Consider and determine what elements of damage need to be compiled, quantified and acknowledged during
an incident investigation:
• The cost to replace lost property belonging to the church
• The possible obligation of the church to replace property lost by team members
• The damage to property owned by a receiving host
• The incidental expense of responding to the emergency
• Damage to interpersonal relationships among or between team members
• Damage to ministry relationships with receiver hosts
• Damage to reputation of ministry, leadership
• Damage to relationships between church and family members of goer guests
• Damage to relationships with media and civil authorities
• Damage to ability to do short-term mission efforts
• Amount of loss not covered by insurance
• Anticipated legal exposure and cost of any litigation
REVISION TRACKING
DATE PRESENTED: April 25, 2008 by the Board of Directors at the stated semi-annual meeting.
DATE REVISED:
BIBLIOGRAPHY
BIBLIOGRAPHY
Steven Fink, Steven. (2000). Crisis Management, Planning for the Inevitable. Backinprint.com.
ISBN 978-0595090792
ADDITIONAL REFERENCES
S.T.E.M. International
PO Box 386001
Minneapolis, MN 55438
877-STEM-646
www.stemintl.org
REVISION TRACKING
DATE PRESENTED: April 25, 2008 by the Board of Directors at the stated semi-annual meeting.
DATE REVISED: