GSEM Volunteer Essentials

position to identify a situation in which a girl may need help. If you believe a girl is at risk of hurting herself or others, your role is to promptly bring that information to her parent/caregiver or the council so she can get the expert assistance she needs. Your concern about a girl’s well-being and safety is taken seriously and your council will guide you in addressing these concerns. Here are a few signs that could indicate a girl needs expert help: • Marked changes in behavior or personality (for example, unusual moodiness, aggressiveness, or sensitivity). • Declining academic performance and/or inability to concentrate. • Withdrawal from school, family activities, or friendships. • Fatigue, apathy, or loss of interest in previously enjoyed activities. • Sleep disturbances. • Increased secretiveness. • Deterioration in appearance and personal hygiene. • Eating extremes, unexplained weight loss, distorted body image. • Tendency toward perfectionism. • Giving away prized possessions; preoccupation with the subject of death. • Unexplained injuries such as bruises, burns, or fractures. Reporting Abuse or Neglect As a troop volunteer, you are in a unique position to identify a situation where a girl may need help. Missouri law states that any person with the responsibility for the care of children has reasonable cause to suspect that a child has been or may be subjected to abuse or neglect or observes a child being subjected to conditions or circumstances which would reasonably result in abuse or neglect, that person shall immediately report. In short, Girl Scout volunteers are mandated reporters. All mandated reporters are strongly encouraged to complete the online training course sponsored by Missouri KidsFirst. To report abuse or neglect concerns to the Missouri Department of Social Services Children’s Division, call the 24-hour Missouri Child Abuse and Neglect hotline at 1.800.392.3738 or use the online reporting system for non-emergencies. If a girl is in immediate danger, call 911. You may also contact the local police department but doing so does not relieve you of the legal obligation to report your concerns to the Missouri Department of Social Services Children’s Division. • Avoidance of eye contact or physical contact. • Excessive fearfulness or distrust of adults. • Abusive behavior toward other children, especially younger ones.

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