Waiver & Parent/Guardian Permission

The FORT and the FORT Teen Hangout are intended to be all-inclusive spaces for teens to be their authentic selves. The Ryan Bartel Foundation will make every effort to facilitate participant needs without compromising workshop integrity and provided it is within our means to do so.  Participants are expected to be able to navigate the FORT independently. Guardians are asked to assess participants’ abilities to engage fully both physically and cognitively in the FORT and the chosen workshops. It is the guardian’s responsibility to reach out to FORT staff to discuss any special needs that may impact participation and ability to engage without becoming a distraction or danger to self or others.

Expectations of Conduct:  The FORT Staff and agents of the Ryan Bartel Foundation make every effort to ensure that all participants have an opportunity to experience the strategies and techniques made available to them in their workshops. They are under obligation to ensure the reasonable safety of all participants and in turn, participants are expected to behave in a manner that is respectful of workshop leaders, volunteers and their peers. 

Possible Risks and Discomforts:  The FORT experience is designed to have MANY therapeutic type benefits, however, it is NOT intended to be a therapy group nor a time of sharing traumatic stories. It is NOT a replacement for therapeutic care.  Specific and monitored discussions may take place during workshops related to issues faced by many young people and the positive strategies that can be used to overcome such challenges.  Should any discussions upset a participant or if a student needs support during those sessions, trained adults are available to assist.  

Confidentiality:  We will remind all participants that any personal stories shared should remain with the group.  If any information is shared that suggests a particular individual is at risk for hurting themselves or others, that information will be reported to the parent or guardian.

Teen Code of Conduct:

• Teens will engage in program activities and discussions, contributing ideas and perspectives.
• Teens will treat program organizers, facilitators, and staff with respect.
• Teens will liisten attentively to instructions given by program leaders and follow them.
• Teens will cooperate with fellow participants, fostering a positive and supportive environment for everyone.
• Teens will take care of program facilities, equipment, and materials, using them responsibly and returning them in good condition.
• Teens will approach new experiences and ideas with an open mind, embracing opportunities for learning and growth.
• Teens will respect the privacy of fellow participants and refrain from sharing personal information.
• Teens will handle disagreements or conflicts calmly and respectfully, seeking resolution through constructive communication.

Release and Waiver: I have read (or had read to me) the contents of this waiver/permission form and been given the opportunity to ask questions and to receive answers.  I hereby release and discharge The Ryan Bartel Foundation and its directors, officers, employees, affiliates, members, agents, volunteers and representatives, of and from any and all liability for any claims, demands, losses or damages, incurred by me or my child in connection with any aspect of this event.  I further authorize and consent to the use of any materials, whether by videotape, film, newsprint, written advertisement, or otherwise, containing mine or my child’s name or picture, and I release The Ryan Bartel Foundation and its directors, officers, employees, affiliates, members, agents, volunteers and representatives from any claims I might have due to initial or subsequent publication of any such materials.