The Sharpening Project

Parent Liability, Consent
& Safety Agreement

One-on-One Mentoring Model

Section 1

Participation & Activity Consent

I, the parent or legal guardian of the student named below, give permission for my child to participate in The Sharpening Project, including:

  • Weekly one-on-one mentoring meetings
  • Monthly large-group gatherings
  • Program-related activities, hangouts, or meetups
  • Approved communication with assigned mentors
  • Any additional activities communicated to me in advance
Note: The Sharpening Project mentors are high-school upperclassmen who serve as positive role models and spiritual guides. They are not licensed counselors, therapists, or professionals.

I acknowledge that all meetings follow official Rules & Protocols, including:

  • All weekly meetings must take place in public or parent-approved locations.
  • Mentors may only transport students with my written permission.
  • Mentors must communicate clearly, appropriately, and never promise secrecy.
  • Leaders follow Tennessee mandatory reporting laws for student safety.
Section 2

Liability Release

I understand and agree that The Sharpening Project, its leaders, volunteers, mentors, and the host church are not liable for any accidental injury, illness, or incident that may occur during program activities.

I release The Sharpening Project, its leadership team, and the partnering host church from responsibility for:

  • Injuries arising from normal program activities
  • Transportation in vehicles I have approved
  • Accidental harm occurring during outdoor activities, parks, sports, or hangouts
This release does not protect The Sharpening Project or its leaders in cases of proven negligence, criminal activity, or violation of mandatory reporting laws.
Section 3

Emergency Authorization

In the event of a medical emergency where I cannot be reached, I authorize The Sharpening Project leadership to:

  • Seek appropriate medical care for my child
  • Follow emergency protocols (calling 911, contacting authorities, etc.)
  • Inform me as quickly as possible afterward

I understand that I am responsible for any medical expenses incurred.

Section 4

Mandatory Reporting & Confidentiality Expectations

Tennessee law requires all adults and minors to report suspected child abuse or neglect.
  • Mentors cannot keep secrets related to harm, abuse, or safety risks.
  • Program leadership will notify me if my child expresses serious safety concerns, self-harm thoughts, or involvement in harmful activities — unless restricted by mandatory reporting law.

I understand that confidentiality in The Sharpening Project has limits for the sake of safety and legal compliance.

Section 5

Communication Consent

I give permission for:

  • My child to communicate with their mentor via text, calls, or group chat
  • Leaders to communicate with me regarding scheduling, updates, or concerns
  • Mentors to contact me directly when needed for scheduling or safety

I may request to review messages at any time. Long-term sensitive conversations will be brought to my attention by leadership.

Section 6

Media Consent (Monthly Group Events Only)

I give permission for group photos or videos of my child to be taken only during monthly large-group events or special gatherings.

  • No photos or videos may be taken during weekly one-on-one mentorship meetings.
  • Any media used publicly will remain wholesome, respectful, and appropriate.
  • My child will not be tagged or identified publicly without my written permission.
  • Photos may be used in internal program communications and Sharpening Project updates.
If you do not grant media consent, notify the Program Director in writing and your child will be excluded from group photo opportunities.
Section 7

Agreement to Rules & Protocols

By signing this form, I acknowledge that I have received (or will receive) a copy of the full Rules & Protocols Manual, understand the expectations and safety standards, agree to communicate openly with program leadership, and understand I may raise concerns at any time.

Signatures