Informed Consent for Participation in Project Sanctuary Family Support Programs 

Introduction 

Thank you for your interest in participating in Project Sanctuary’s Family Support Programs. This document outlines the services provided, the rights and responsibilities of participants, and the limitations and potential risks associated with these programs. Please read this information carefully before providing your consent to participate. 

Important Reminder 

All family participants are required to be present and actively participate in the review and acknowledgment of this informed consent. Full understanding and agreement by all eligible participants are essential for program participation. 

Programs Overview and Format 

1. Resilient Reflections: Individualized Coaching Sessions 

Description: Bi-weekly 30-minute phone sessions offering a supportive space to reflect on life events, explore personal growth, and develop strategies to maintain balance. 

Format: Sessions will take place via phone. Participants are encouraged to identify goals and topics for discussion. 

2. Thriving Together: Couples Coaching 

Description: Coaching sessions designed to strengthen relationships by improving communication and fostering connections. 

Format: Sessions may require both partners to attend together. Active participation and a willingness to implement strategies are encouraged. 

3. Connected Coaching: Strengthening Parent-Child Bonds 

Description: A unique coaching program designed for parents and children to work together, fostering open communication, understanding, and stronger emotional connections. 

Format: Parents and children will collaborate in a structured coaching environment designed to enhance communication and foster mutual understanding. 

4. Operation Financial Empowerment 

Description: Comprehensive financial support through expert pro-bono financial advisors, budgeting tools, and educational resources.

Format: Participants are expected to actively engage with advisors and tools provided to maximize the program's benefits. 

5. Resourcing & Referrals 

Description: Personalized assistance connecting families to trusted services, including counseling, military-focused programs, and community resources.  

Format: Participants are encouraged to provide accurate information to facilitate effective referrals.  

6. Therapeutic Retreats and Post-Follow-Up 

Description: Immersive therapeutic retreats designed to provide intensive support, skill-building, and healing opportunities for individuals and families. These retreats are followed by a two-year post-participation follow-up to assess progress and long-term outcomes. 

Format: Retreats include a mix of group and individual sessions, workshops, and experiential activities. Participants will be required to complete periodic surveys during the two-year follow-up period to evaluate program impact and personal development. 

Purpose and Goals 

The primary goal of these programs is to provide holistic support to individuals and families, addressing emotional, relational, and financial challenges to promote resilience, clarity, and overall well-being. 

Participation Requirements 

Voluntary Participation: Participation in any Family Supports Program Offering is completely voluntary. You may withdraw at any time without penalty or loss of access to other available services. 

Eligibility: These services are designed for individuals and families seeking support in emotional resilience, relationship growth, financial empowerment, or resource navigation. Eligibility may be subject to specific program criteria. 

Moral and Ethical Behavior: All participants are expected to engage with program staff and fellow participants in a manner that upholds respect, integrity, and ethical behavior. Any inappropriate, harmful, or disrespectful conduct may result in removal from the program.  

Attendance Policy 

Consistent participation is vital to the success of all Family Support Program Offerings. Our programs are designed to provide the greatest benefit when participants actively engage in scheduled sessions and activities. To ensure fairness and maximize the impact of services for all participants, the following attendance policy is in place: 

Commitment to Scheduled Sessions: Participants are expected to attend all scheduled sessions and actively engage in the program. 

Notification of Absences: If you are unable to attend a session, you must notify your assigned coach, advisor, or program facilitator at least 24 hours in advance. Exceptions may be made for emergencies, at the discretion of the Family Support Program staff. 

Attendance Monitoring: Attendance will be tracked throughout the duration of the program. Participants missing two consecutive sessions or three total sessions without prior notice or a valid reason will be contacted to discuss their commitment to the program. 

Consequences of Excessive Absences: Participants who miss three or more sessions without valid justification or communication may be subject to removal from the program. Such decisions will be made on a case-by-case basis by the Family Support Program staff. 

Reinstatement Process: Participants removed due to attendance issues may request reconsideration by submitting a written explanation and a commitment to adhere to the attendance policy moving forward. Reinstatement is not guaranteed and is subject to program capacity and staff approval. 

Program Withdrawal 

We understand that circumstances may arise requiring participants to withdraw from Family Support Program Offerings. Withdrawal is a formal process to ensure appropriate communication and resolution. Please review the following guidelines: 

Voluntary Withdrawal: Participants may choose to withdraw from the program at any time. To withdraw, you must notify the Family Support Program staff in writing or via email, providing the reason for your decision if possible. 

Completion of Open Sessions: Participants are encouraged to complete any currently scheduled sessions before withdrawal to allow for proper closure and transition. 

Retention of Data: Any information or data collected prior to withdrawal will remain part of the program’s analysis and records to maintain the integrity of evaluation processes. All data will continue to be handled confidentially. 

Re-Enrollment: Re-enrollment in the program after withdrawal is subject to availability and approval by the Family Support Program staff. Participants seeking re-enrollment may be required to provide a written explanation and commit to the program's requirements. 

Involuntary Withdrawal: Participants may be withdrawn from the program by Family Support Program staff due to non-compliance with program requirements, including attendance policies or inappropriate behavior. Efforts will be made to address concerns prior to any such decision. 

Survey Completion Requirement 

As part of your participation in Family Supports Program Offerings, the completion of all program surveys is required. These surveys are a critical component for evaluating the effectiveness of the program and ensuring it meets participant needs. 

While some questions may address sensitive topics and could cause discomfort, completing all surveys in full is essential for the program’s success. If you or your minor experience any discomfort during the process, program staff are available to provide support. Your participation in completing these surveys is vital and directly contributes to the program’s ability to create meaningful outcomes for families. 

Information collected will be securely stored and used for internal and external purposes. Any data shared for external purposes will be de-identified.  

Potential Benefits 

Emotional well-being through guided conversations and personalized support. 

Strengthened relationships and improved communication. 

Financial stability and access to valuable resources. 

Connection to trusted programs tailored to individual needs. 

Potential Risks 

While every effort is made to ensure a supportive and positive experience, participants may encounter the following: 

Emotional discomfort when discussing challenging personal topics and/or answering survey questions. 

Temporary frustration or overwhelm when addressing financial challenges or relationship concerns. 

Limits to confidentiality if a safety concern arises (see Confidentiality section). 

Confidentiality and Information Sharing 

Your privacy is a top priority. Information shared during sessions will remain confidential, except in the following circumstances: 

Safety Concerns: If there is an imminent risk of harm to yourself or others, necessary information may be disclosed to protect safety. 

Legal Obligations: Information may be disclosed if required by law, such as in cases of suspected child abuse, neglect, or other mandated reporting situations. 

Professional Consultation: To ensure the quality of services provided, de-identified information may be shared within the team for consultation and guidance. 

Third-Party Collaboration: I consent to the sharing of my information with a pro-bono financial advisor, who is not employed by Project Sanctuary, for the purpose of receiving financial guidance. This advisor operates independently, and Project Sanctuary is not responsible for their actions or advice.  

Participation of Minors in Family Supports Program Offerings 

Participation of minors in Family Support Program Offerings requires the informed consent of a parent or legal guardian. By providing consent, the parent or guardian agrees to their minor's full engagement in all aspects of the program, including pre-retreat preparation, the therapeutic retreat itself, and post-retreat follow-up. 

Purpose: The family support programs, including the therapeutic retreat, aim to foster personal growth, strengthen resilience, and enhance family dynamics through evidence-based interventions and guided processes.

Voluntary Participation: Participation in the family support programs and therapeutic retreat is entirely voluntary, and there are no penalties for declining or discontinuing involvement at any stage. 

Scope: By consenting, the parent or guardian authorizes the minor’s participation in therapeutic modalities, skill-building interventions, facilitated discussions, and reflective exercises delivered across the pre-retreat, retreat, and post-retreat phases. These engagements are designed to address individual and family needs while achieving program goals. 

Privacy: The minor’s privacy will be respected throughout their participation. However, disclosures may be required by law in cases of suspected abuse, neglect, or imminent harm. All interactions will adhere to strict confidentiality protocols. 

Data Use: Information collected during the pre-, during-, and post-retreat phases, including participation in surveys, activities, and discussions, will be securely stored and used for program evaluation, improvement, and research. Identifiable information will not be shared without explicit consent. 

Access: Parents or guardians may request information about the minor’s involvement at any stage, including the content and objectives of specific activities. 

Withdrawal: Consent may be withdrawn at any time, discontinuing the minor’s participation. However, data collected prior to withdrawal will remain part of the program’s overall analysis to preserve its integrity. 

Feedback: Parents or guardians are encouraged to provide feedback or address concerns about their minor’s experience with the therapeutic retreat or related program elements by contacting program staff. 

Liability and Non-Liability Agreement 

By participating in events and activities sponsored by Project Sanctuary, you, as the undersigned, agree to the following terms on behalf of yourself and all attendees listed below, including representatives, heirs, and others connected to you: 

Release of Liability 

You release and discharge Project Sanctuary, along with its employees, Board of Directors, officers, representatives, agents, and independent contractors (collectively referred to as “The Releasees”), from any and all responsibility for claims, demands, or legal actions related to any loss, damage, injury, or death that may occur while attending or participating in retreats or activities hosted by Project Sanctuary. 

Indemnification 

You agree to protect and hold The Releasees harmless from any losses, damages, injuries, or costs that may arise from your participation in any activities. 

Assumption of Risk 

You acknowledge and accept full responsibility for any risks involved in participation, including physical injuries, emotional distress, or damage to property. 

Representation of Condition 

You confirm that you are at least 18 years old and are entering into this agreement on behalf of yourself and any minors listed below. 

You affirm that all participants included in this agreement are in appropriate physical and mental condition to take part in Project Sanctuary’s activities. 

You confirm that no verbal promises or agreements have been made by The Releasees beyond what is stated in this document. 

Non-Liability Clause 

Project Sanctuary and its representatives provide programs as a supportive resource and do not guarantee specific outcomes. 

Participation in these programs does not replace professional medical, psychological, financial, or legal advice. Participants are solely responsible for decisions and actions taken based on insights and resources provided during the program. 

Project Sanctuary will not be held liable for any personal, relational, or financial outcomes resulting from participation in these programs. Participants are encouraged to seek additional professional support if needed. 

Binding Nature 

This agreement applies to you, your heirs, next of kin, and anyone connected to you, now and in the future. 

Participant Rights 

At Project Sanctuary, we are committed to upholding the rights of all participants. Your involvement in Family Support Program Offerings is grounded in the following principles: 

Informed Participation: You have the right to be fully informed about the programs and services available to you. Questions and concerns will be addressed promptly and transparently to ensure your understanding and comfort. 

Confidentiality: Your personal information will be handled with the utmost care, in accordance with the confidentiality policies outlined in this document and applicable privacy laws. Exceptions to confidentiality will occur only as legally mandated or ethically required. 

Respect and Dignity: All participants will be treated with fairness, respect, and consideration. Your perspectives and concerns will be valued and addressed thoughtfully by our team. 

Voluntary Participation and Withdrawal: Your participation is entirely voluntary, and you may withdraw from the program at any time without any impact on your access to other Project Sanctuary services or resources. Please note that data collected prior to your withdrawal will be retained to maintain the integrity and reliability of the program’s evaluation processes. 

These rights are in place to ensure your experience with Project Sanctuary is supportive, equitable, and respectful. Should you have questions about these rights or require additional clarification, please do not hesitate to contact Family Support Program staff.  

Contact Information 

If you have any questions or concerns about your participation, please contact us: 

Email: familysupport@projectsanctuary.us 

Phone: 716-393-9442 

Acknowledgment and Consent 

By signing below, I/we confirm that: 

I/we have read and fully understand the information provided in this consent form. 

I/we have had the opportunity to ask questions about the programs, services, and policies, and have received satisfactory answers. 

I/we voluntarily agree to participate in the selected program(s) offered by Project Sanctuary Family Support. 

I/we understand that we may be subject to a background check by Project Sanctuary to include a criminal background check in order to ensure the safety of all participants at retreat. I/we understand that this information may be used to make decisions regarding our participation in the retreat and that I/we have a right to review any reports generated as a result of the check. 

If signing on behalf of a minor, I/we confirm that I/we am/are the parent(s) or legal guardian(s) of the minor and provide consent for their participation in the program(s). 

I/we understand that my/our participation, or the participation of a minor, is subject to the terms outlined in this document, including adherence to program requirements, confidentiality policies, and the attendance policy. 

I/we acknowledge and accept the non-liability clause and understand the conditions under which information may be shared as outlined in the consent form. 

Legally Binding Agreement: By signing this document, I/we understand that this is a legally binding agreement, and the terms outlined herein will remain in effect for a period of five (5) consecutive years from the date of signing, unless explicitly terminated in writing.