For Youth and Families

Cornell University is Committed to Keeping Youth Safe

At Cornell University, the safety and well-being of youth participants is a top priority. Through University Policy 8.8, Cornell has established requirements and procedures to help ensure that programs involving minors are conducted in environments that are safe, supportive, and free from abuse, maltreatment, neglect, and other forms of harm. 

All individuals involved with Cornell-affiliated youth programs, including faculty, staff, students, volunteers, and third-party operators, are expected to uphold these standards and help protect the youth in their care.

To support the safety of youth participants, Cornell requires:

Compliance with University Policy: All Cornell-affiliated youth programs must follow university policies and procedures designed to promote the safety, well-being, and protection of minors.

Background Screening: Individuals working with youth are required to complete appropriate screening measures, including criminal background checks and sex offender registry searches, before participating in youth programs.

Training and Education: Personnel receive training to help them recognize, prevent, and respond appropriately to concerns involving the safety and well-being of youth participants.

Safety Practices and Supervision: Programs are required to implement appropriate supervision practices and other proactive safety measures to reduce risk and create a safe environment for youth.

Reporting and Response Procedures: Cornell has established clear procedures for reporting known or suspected abuse, misconduct, or other concerns involving minors, and takes reports seriously.