CONSENT FORM | Equipministriesusa

EQUIP MINISTRIES USA Inc.

PARENT/GUARDIAN PARTICIPATION, ASSUMPTION OF RISK, RELEASE, INDEMNIFICATION & MEDICAL AUTHORIZATION AGREEMENT

PLEASE READ THIS DOCUMENT CAREFULLY BEFORE AGREEING.

This Agreement is entered into by and between EQUIP Ministries USA, Inc. (“EQUIP”), the undersigned parent or legal guardian (“Parent/Guardian”), and the participating camper (“Participant”) in connection with the Participant’s attendance and participation in an EQUIP Ministries USA Retreat (“Retreat”).

This Agreement is intended to establish the terms and conditions under which the Participant may attend and participate in the Retreat, including recreational, educational, spiritual, athletic, outdoor, aquatic, transportation, and other activities associated with the Retreat.

By signing this Agreement, the Parent/Guardian acknowledges that participation in the Retreat involves inherent and other risks, understands those risks, voluntarily assumes those risks on behalf of the Participant to the fullest extent permitted by law, and agrees to the releases, waivers, covenants, indemnification provisions, and medical authorizations contained herein.

For purposes of this Agreement, the term “Retreat” includes the scheduled Retreat activities, programming, events, transportation provided or arranged by EQUIP, meals, lodging, recreational activities, free time, and other activities reasonably associated with the Retreat during the designated Retreat period.

The Participant may be required to arrive before or remain after scheduled programming for registration, transportation, loading/unloading, check-in, check-out, or other administrative purposes.

1. ELIGIBILITY AND PARTICIPATION

EQUIP Retreats are primarily designed for middle-school and high-school students. However, unless otherwise specified for a particular Retreat, there is no maximum age limit for Participants.

EQUIP reserves the right to establish reasonable age, physical ability, skill, health, behavioral, or participation requirements for particular activities.

EQUIP may refuse, restrict, suspend, or terminate a Participant’s participation in any activity when EQUIP reasonably determines that the activity may present an unacceptable risk to the Participant or others.

2. NATURE OF THE RETREAT

The Parent/Guardian understands that an EQUIP Retreat is not simply an educational conference. It may involve overnight lodging, outdoor recreation, physical activities, group activities, worship, teaching, travel, free time, and participation in facilities and activities operated by EQUIP, the campground, independent contractors, activity providers, volunteers, or other third parties.

The Parent/Guardian understands that some activities may involve substantial physical risk even when appropriate safety procedures, supervision, instructions, equipment, and precautions are provided.

3. ACKNOWLEDGMENT AND ASSUMPTION OF RISK

THE PARENT/GUARDIAN EXPRESSLY ACKNOWLEDGES THAT PARTICIPATION IN THE RETREAT INVOLVES INHERENT AND OTHER RISKS OF INJURY, ILLNESS, PROPERTY DAMAGE, DISABILITY, AND DEATH.

These risks may include, without limitation:

Falls;
Slips and trips;
Collisions;
Sprains and strains;
Broken bones;
Cuts, abrasions, bruises, and puncture wounds;
Concussions and other head injuries;
Spinal, neck, or back injuries;
Muscle, tendon, ligament, or joint injuries;
Allergic reactions;
Food-related illness;
Dehydration;
Heat-related illness;
Cold-related illness;
Sunburn;
Insect or animal bites;
Exposure to plants, wildlife, or environmental hazards;
Communicable or infectious diseases;
Drowning or near-drowning;
Watercraft-related injuries;
Horse-related injuries;
Injuries associated with ropes, cables, harnesses, climbing equipment, or elevated structures;
Equipment malfunction or failure;
Injuries resulting from the actions or inactions of other Participants;
Injuries resulting from the actions or inactions of staff, volunteers, contractors, vendors, instructors, or activity providers;
Injuries associated with transportation;
Injuries associated with uneven, wet, slippery, rocky, wooded, or otherwise hazardous terrain;
Injuries arising from weather or environmental conditions;
Medical emergencies;
Emotional or psychological distress;
Serious bodily injury;
Permanent disability; and
Death.

The Parent/Guardian understands that these risks may occur despite reasonable precautions and may result from the Participant’s own actions, the actions of others, conditions of the premises or equipment, or circumstances beyond the reasonable control of EQUIP.

The Parent/Guardian voluntarily assumes, on behalf of the Participant and to the fullest extent permitted by applicable law, all risks associated with the Participant’s attendance at and participation in the Retreat.

4. SPECIFIC ACTIVITIES

The Parent/Guardian understands that the Retreat may include, but is not limited to, activities such as:

Giant swings;
Zip lines;
Ropes courses;
Climbing walls;
Rock walls;
Horseback riding;
Swimming and pool activities;
Lake activities;
Canoeing;
Kayaking;
Paddle boating;
Water recreation;
Hiking;
Outdoor games;
Sports;
Field activities;
Campfires;
Archery or similar activities, where offered;
Challenge or team-building activities;
Playground or recreational equipment;
Camping or outdoor activities;
Transportation-related activities;
Activities involving heights;
Activities involving water;
Activities involving animals;
Activities involving specialized equipment; and
Any other activity offered, sponsored, arranged, or permitted during the Retreat.

The Parent/Guardian understands that not every activity may be available at every Retreat and that additional activities may be offered.

5. RELEASE AND WAIVER OF LIABILITY

IN CONSIDERATION OF BEING PERMITTED TO ATTEND AND PARTICIPATE IN THE RETREAT, THE PARENT/GUARDIAN, ON BEHALF OF HIMSELF/HERSELF AND, TO THE FULLEST EXTENT PERMITTED BY LAW, ON BEHALF OF THE PARTICIPANT, AGREES TO RELEASE, WAIVE, DISCHARGE, COVENANT NOT TO SUE, AND HOLD HARMLESS THE RELEASED PARTIES DEFINED BELOW FROM CLAIMS ARISING OUT OF OR RELATING TO THE PARTICIPANT’S ATTENDANCE AT OR PARTICIPATION IN THE RETREAT, INCLUDING CLAIMS ARISING FROM THE ORDINARY NEGLIGENCE OF A RELEASED PARTY.

This release applies to bodily injury, illness, death, property damage, loss, expense, claim, demand, cause of action, liability, or other damages arising out of or relating to the Retreat or the Participant’s presence at the Retreat facilities.

This release is intended to be interpreted to the fullest extent permitted by applicable law.

Nothing in this Agreement is intended to release liability that cannot lawfully be released under applicable law, including liability arising from gross negligence, willful misconduct, or intentional misconduct to the extent such liability cannot legally be waived.

6. RELEASED PARTIES

For purposes of this Agreement, “Released Parties” means:

EQUIP Ministries USA, Inc.; EQUIP Ministries USA; EQUIP Retreats; their officers, directors, employees, agents, representatives, volunteers, missionaries, instructors, counselors, staff members, contractors, ministry partners, affiliated organizations, insurers, successors, and assigns;

and, where applicable:

the owner, operator, manager, employees, agents, representatives, volunteers, contractors, insurers, successors, and assigns of the campground or retreat facility at which the Retreat occurs;

and:

any independent activity provider, transportation provider, instructor, guide, vendor, contractor, or other third party providing services, equipment, facilities, activities, or transportation in connection with the Retreat.

The Parent/Guardian understands and agrees that the campground/facility is a separate entity from EQUIP unless expressly stated otherwise in writing.

7. CAMPGROUND AND FACILITY RELEASE

The Parent/Guardian understands that the Retreat may take place on property owned or operated by a third-party campground or retreat facility.

To the fullest extent permitted by applicable law, the Parent/Guardian agrees that the campground/facility and its owners, operators, employees, agents, contractors, volunteers, and representatives are included among the Released Parties.

The Parent/Guardian acknowledges that EQUIP may not own, operate, maintain, inspect, or control all facilities, equipment, trails, buildings, water areas, recreational equipment, vehicles, or activity areas used during the Retreat.

The Parent/Guardian therefore agrees that participation in activities or presence on campground property constitutes acceptance of the risks associated with those premises and facilities, subject to the limitations imposed by applicable law.

8. COVENANT NOT TO SUE

To the fullest extent permitted by law, the Parent/Guardian agrees not to initiate, maintain, or assist in any lawsuit, claim, demand, or proceeding against any Released Party for a claim that has been released or waived under this Agreement.

This provision applies to claims arising from ordinary negligence to the extent such claims may lawfully be released under applicable law.

Nothing in this section prohibits a claim that cannot legally be waived.

9. INDEMNIFICATION

To the fullest extent permitted by applicable law, the Parent/Guardian agrees to indemnify, defend, and hold harmless the Released Parties from claims, damages, liabilities, costs, and reasonable expenses arising from:

The Participant’s intentional or negligent conduct;
The Parent/Guardian’s breach of this Agreement;
False, incomplete, or inaccurate information provided by the Parent/Guardian concerning the Participant;
The Participant’s failure to comply with Retreat rules or instructions; or
Claims brought by or through the Participant to the extent permitted by applicable law.

This indemnification provision does not require the Parent/Guardian to indemnify a Released Party for liability that cannot legally be shifted under applicable law.

10. MEDICAL AUTHORIZATION AND EMERGENCY CARE

The Parent/Guardian understands that EQUIP staff members and volunteers are not necessarily physicians, nurses, emergency medical technicians, or other licensed healthcare professionals.

The Parent/Guardian hereby authorizes EQUIP Ministries USA and its designated representatives, employees, volunteers, counselors, or staff members to take reasonable action they determine is necessary in the event of illness, injury, accident, medical emergency, or other health-related situation involving the Participant.

This authorization includes, when reasonably necessary:

Providing basic first aid;
Cleaning and treating minor cuts, scrapes, burns, blisters, or similar minor injuries;
Applying bandages or other basic first-aid materials;
Calling emergency medical services;
Contacting emergency personnel;
Arranging or providing transportation to an emergency department, urgent-care facility, physician, clinic, or hospital;
Requesting evaluation or treatment by qualified medical personnel;
Providing relevant medical information to emergency or healthcare providers;
Authorizing emergency evaluation and treatment when the Parent/Guardian cannot reasonably be reached in time; and
Taking other reasonable steps necessary to protect the Participant’s health and safety.

The Parent/Guardian understands that EQUIP will make reasonable efforts to contact the Parent/Guardian or emergency contact as soon as reasonably practicable.

11. MEDICAL TREATMENT

The Parent/Guardian authorizes physicians, emergency medical personnel, hospitals, clinics, urgent-care facilities, and other appropriately licensed healthcare providers to evaluate and provide medically appropriate care to the Participant when reasonably necessary.

The Parent/Guardian understands that EQUIP does not provide professional medical diagnosis or treatment and that medical decisions made by licensed healthcare professionals are outside EQUIP’s control.

The Parent/Guardian agrees to be financially responsible for all medical, emergency transportation, hospital, physician, pharmacy, treatment, and related expenses incurred on behalf of the Participant.

The Parent/Guardian further understands that EQUIP cannot guarantee any particular medical outcome and, to the fullest extent permitted by law, releases the Released Parties from claims arising from the medical treatment, evaluation, transportation, or outcome, except to the extent liability cannot legally be waived.

12. MEDICATIONS

The Parent/Guardian acknowledges that it is primarily the Parent/Guardian’s responsibility to ensure that the Participant arrives at the Retreat with all required medications for the entire duration of the Retreat.

The Parent/Guardian must provide clear written instructions regarding:

Medication name;
Dosage;
Frequency;
Detailed administration instructions at time of drop off;
Timing;
Storage requirements;
Emergency medication procedures;
Known side effects or concerns; and
Any other information necessary for safe administration.

Where Retreat policies permit staff assistance with medication, the Parent/Guardian authorizes EQUIP personnel to assist only within the scope permitted by applicable law and EQUIP policy.

The Parent/Guardian acknowledges that EQUIP cannot guarantee that medication will be administered in exactly the same manner as it would be administered at home unless such service has been expressly agreed to in writing.

The Parent/Guardian is responsible for supplying sufficient medication for the entire Retreat.

13. SPECIAL DIETARY NEEDS

The Parent/Guardian is responsible for clearly communicating any medically necessary or otherwise essential dietary requirements before the Retreat.

Where a Participant requires special food, supplements, allergy-safe food, medically necessary nutrition, or other specialized dietary items, the Parent/Guardian is responsible for ensuring that adequate supplies are provided for the entire Retreat unless EQUIP has expressly confirmed in writing that the Retreat will provide them.

EQUIP should not be expected to assume responsibility for specialized foods or dietary requirements that the Parent/Guardian has not clearly disclosed in advance.

14. MEDICAL INFORMATION AUTHORIZATION

The Parent/Guardian authorizes EQUIP, when reasonably necessary for the Participant’s care and safety during the Retreat, to communicate relevant medical information to:

Emergency medical personnel;
Physicians;
Hospitals;
Urgent-care facilities;
Healthcare providers;
Emergency responders;
Appropriate Retreat staff;
The Parent/Guardian’s designated emergency contact; and
Other persons reasonably involved in providing emergency assistance to the Participant.

This authorization is intended to facilitate appropriate emergency care and communication and shall be interpreted consistently with applicable privacy laws.

15. TRANSPORTATION

The Parent/Guardian understands that transportation may be necessary in connection with the Retreat.

Transportation may include transportation by:

EQUIP staff or volunteers;
Licensed transportation providers;
Campground transportation;
Vans, buses, automobiles, or other vehicles;
Emergency medical vehicles; or
Other transportation providers.

To the fullest extent permitted by law, the risks associated with transportation are included within the assumption of risk and release provisions of this Agreement.

16. PERSONAL PROPERTY

EQUIP does not guarantee the security of Participants’ personal property.

The Parent/Guardian understands that money, electronic devices, clothing, luggage, sporting equipment, jewelry, medications, and other personal belongings may be lost, damaged, misplaced, or stolen.

To the fullest extent permitted by law, the Released Parties are not responsible for loss of or damage to personal property except where such responsibility cannot legally be waived.

17. PARTICIPANT CONDUCT

The Parent/Guardian understands that the Participant must follow all Retreat rules, safety instructions, campground rules, activity-provider rules, and reasonable instructions from EQUIP staff and authorized personnel.

EQUIP may remove a Participant from an activity or, when necessary, require the Parent/Guardian to retrieve the Participant from the Retreat if the Participant:

Creates a safety risk;
Refuses to follow reasonable safety instructions;
Endangers another person;
Damages property;
Engages in prohibited conduct;
Possesses prohibited substances or items;
Violates Retreat rules; or
Otherwise engages in conduct that EQUIP reasonably determines is incompatible with the safety or operation of the Retreat.

The Parent/Guardian may be responsible for transportation and other expenses associated with early removal of the Participant.

18. EMERGENCY CONTACT AND COMMUNICATION

The Parent/Guardian agrees to remain reasonably reachable during the Retreat.

The Parent/Guardian shall provide accurate emergency contact information and shall notify EQUIP promptly of any changes.

19. NO GUARANTEE OF SAFETY

The Parent/Guardian understands that no organization can guarantee the safety of every Participant.

EQUIP may establish safety rules, provide supervision, conduct safety briefings, use appropriate equipment, and take reasonable precautions; however, these measures cannot eliminate all risks associated with outdoor recreation, physical activity, water activities, animals, transportation, overnight camps, or other Retreat activities.

The Parent/Guardian acknowledges and accepts this limitation.

20. INSURANCE AND MEDICAL EXPENSES

The Parent/Guardian understands that the Parent/Guardian and/or Participant’s health insurance is primarily responsible for medical expenses arising from injury or illness occurring during the Retreat.

The Parent/Guardian agrees that neither EQUIP nor the campground is responsible for medical bills, deductibles, copayments, transportation expenses, prescriptions, rehabilitation expenses, or other healthcare costs except to the extent required by law.

21. PARENT/GUARDIAN REPRESENTATIONS

The Parent/Guardian represents and warrants that:

The Parent/Guardian has legal authority to sign this Agreement;
The information provided to EQUIP is accurate and complete;
The Participant is physically and mentally capable of participating in the Retreat activities disclosed to the Parent/Guardian;
The Parent/Guardian has disclosed relevant medical conditions, allergies, medications, dietary restrictions, and limitations;
The Parent/Guardian has informed the Participant of the risks associated with the Retreat;
The Parent/Guardian has instructed the Participant to follow all safety rules and directions;
The Parent/Guardian understands that participation is voluntary; and
The Parent/Guardian has had sufficient opportunity to ask questions regarding this Agreement before signing it.

22. ACKNOWLEDGMENT OF VOLUNTARY PARTICIPATION

The Parent/Guardian understands that the Participant is not required to participate in any Retreat activity.

The Parent/Guardian understands that certain activities may be declined by the Participant when permitted by EQUIP or the activity provider.

The Parent/Guardian acknowledges that participation is voluntary and that the Participant and Parent/Guardian have been informed of the general nature of the risks involved.

23. SEVERABILITY

If any provision of this Agreement is determined by a court of competent jurisdiction to be invalid, unenforceable, or contrary to applicable law, that provision shall be modified or limited to the minimum extent necessary to make it enforceable, if permitted by law.

If the provision cannot be made enforceable, it shall be severed, and the remaining provisions shall remain in full force and effect to the fullest extent permitted by law.

24. GOVERNING LAW AND VENUE

This Agreement shall be governed by and construed under the laws of the State in which the Retreat occurs, unless applicable law requires otherwise.

Any dispute concerning the interpretation or enforcement of this Agreement shall be brought in a court of competent jurisdiction in the appropriate venue under applicable law.

25. EMERGENCY MEDICAL AUTHORIZATION —

ADDITIONAL RECOGNITION

I specifically authorize EQUIP Ministries USA and its designated representatives to seek and obtain emergency medical evaluation, treatment, transportation, and related care for the Participant when reasonably necessary and when I cannot be reached in sufficient time.

I understand that this authorization does not guarantee any particular medical outcome.

26. MEDICAL AND DIETARY INFORMATION CERTIFICATION

I certify that I have provided EQUIP Ministries USA with complete and accurate information regarding the Participant's known medical conditions, allergies, medications, dietary restrictions, physical limitations, and other information that may reasonably affect the Participant's safety.

I understand that it is my responsibility to provide adequate medications, special foods, medical equipment, and written instructions necessary for the Participant during the entire Retreat unless EQUIP has expressly agreed otherwise in writing.

IMPORTANT NOTICE TO PARENTS/GUARDIANS

DO NOT CHECK THE BOX ON THE REGISTRATION FORM FOR THIS AGREEMENT

UNTIL YOU HAVE READ AND UNDERSTOOD IT.

This document is intended to address assumption of risk, release of liability, campground/facility participation, emergency medical authorization, medication and dietary responsibilities, indemnification, and related matters.

Because this Agreement may affect substantial legal rights, EQUIP Ministries USA should have this document reviewed and approved by a licensed attorney in the state where the Retreat is conducted before using it as an official legal agreement.

EQUIP MINISTRIES USA RETREATS

Official Retreat Contact: Dave Glander 706-202-3141

27. ENTIRE AGREEMENT

This Agreement constitutes the complete agreement between the Parent/Guardian and EQUIP concerning the matters addressed herein, except for additional written agreements, policies, rules, or documents expressly incorporated into the Retreat registration materials.

No oral representation or statement shall modify this Agreement unless such modification is made in writing and signed by an authorized representative of EQUIP and the Parent/Guardian where legally required.

28. ACKNOWLEDGMENT OF UNDERSTANDING

I ACKNOWLEDGE THAT I HAVE READ THIS AGREEMENT CAREFULLY.

I understand that this Agreement contains provisions that:

Assume risks associated with participation in an EQUIP Retreat;
Release and waive certain claims;
Include claims arising from ordinary negligence to the extent permitted by law;
Include a covenant not to sue;
Include indemnification obligations;
Release EQUIP and applicable campground/facility owners and operators to the fullest extent permitted by law;
Authorize emergency medical care and transportation;
Make me responsible for medical and related expenses;
Require me to provide medications and clear medical instructions;
Require me to disclose relevant medical and dietary information; and
May substantially affect my legal rights and the legal rights of the Participant.

I HAVE HAD THE OPPORTUNITY TO ASK QUESTIONS ABOUT THIS AGREEMENT AND UNDERSTAND ITS TERMS.

I voluntarily agree to the terms of this Agreement.

29. PARENT/GUARDIAN CONSENT AND ACKNOWLEDGMENT

By checking the box on your camper’s registration form on the EQUIP Ministries USA Inc. online platform, or filling it out and checking by hand, you are acknowledging this Parent/Guardian Consent Agreement