Attention to all Existing and New Volunteers
The Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston has implemented a new Safe Environment Program. Effective 01/01/2019, CMG Safe Haven online training is replacing all VIRTUS training. There will be no more live training; all training will be online and in the comfort of one’s home. This training consists of three vignette-style videos, approximately 60 minutes total, that include a criminal background check and are available in English and Spanish.
New volunteers
Those 18 years of age and older must complete the new training and background check prior to volunteering. The approval process may take two weeks or less. To continue volunteering, everyone must renew the Safe Environment training every five years.
Check with our Parish Safe Environment Coordinators for approval of your account status. To register for this new online program please go to: https://GalvestonHouston.CMGConnect.org.
Existing volunteers
The 5-year anniversary date is still in place.
Volunteers who recently attended VIRTUS will not be required to complete refresher training until the 5th-year anniversary date. This new system will allow you to complete this training 60 days before the 5th-year anniversary date.
Once you met the 5-year anniversary date, you must complete this training and background check. You must log into CMGConnect at https://GalvestonHouston.CMGConnect.org with your previous personal VIRTUS user id and 1234 as the password. Once logged into your CMGConnect account, you can change the password and update your information. If you do not remember your user id, don't hesitate to get in touch with us.
If your training has expired, you will need to complete the new training and complete the background check prior to continuing or returning to your volunteer service. You will only be able to continue/return to your service upon approval from the Office of Child and Youth Protection.
The time for approval may be approximately two weeks or less. Check with our Parish Safe Environment Coordinators for approval or status of your account.
Everyone must renew the Safe Environment training every five years.
Should you have any questions regarding the above, or need to use one of our computers for this training (by appointment only), please do not hesitate to email the Safe Environment Coordinators at [email protected] or by telephone, Ana Rodriguez (Spanish speaking) at 281-358-1959 ext. 269 or Mimi Whitfield at 281-358-1959 ext. 212.