Vine and Branches Membership Request

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Vine and Branches Porter County (V&B) is a Christian educational homeschool co-op and 501c3 non-profit organization. Application for membership requires the following:

1. You must complete the entire application form (please be sure to include both the first and last name of your children on the form below); please note that this application is thorough and may take more than 15 minutes to complete.

2. You must read and agree to our Statement of Faith and/or agree to participate with the understanding that V&B offers only classes and activities that reflect our Statement of Faith and reserves the right to deny any endorsement or approval of classes or activities that conflict with our Statement of Faith.

3. You must read and fully agree to the Participation Requirements and Expectations, Code of Conduct and Dress Code, Participation & Media Release, and provide an accurate and verifiable Volunteer Application in order to participate in our co-op.

4. Please note that submission of this request does not guarantee membership.

5. IMPORTANT: When filling out the request below, please fill in the field that asks for "Primary Parent Name" with the name of the parent or adult family member who will be responsible for fulfilling co-op responsibilities. Please fill in the field that asks for "Spouse's Name" with the Primary's spouse information if married; if not married, please leave blank. Feel free to leave your spouses email address blank if he/she does not wish to receive V&B forum messages.

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Primary Parent Last Name Primary Parent First Name Primary Parent Email Family Username
Family Password
Confirm Family Password Spouse Last Name (if applicable) Spouse First Name (if applicable) Spouse Email (if applicable) If Spouse Email (if applicable) is entered above, should it also receive weekly email and forum notifications, etc.? Yes No Address City State / Province Zip / Postal Code Timezone Phone Enable Text Messages

I am able and agree to receive text messages at the number above.
I understand carrier message and data rates may apply.

Phone 2 Enable Text Messages

I am able and agree to receive text messages at the number above.
I understand carrier message and data rates may apply.

Upload Family Photo (Optional) .jpg, .gif or .png

Children

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Year you Started Homeschooling Weekly Email Update: Would you like to receive a weekly email update? Yes No

Forum Emails:

Would you like to receive forum notifications via email (not just the ones you create)? Yes No

Many Emails: Would you like to receive notifications IMMEDIATELY? Yes No

Delivery Type Whole Thread New Part Only

Daily Digest: Would you like to receive notifications ONCE A DAY? Yes No

Classifieds Emails:

Classifieds - Many Emails: Would you like to receive ALL classified notifications IMMEDIATELY via email: Yes No Classifieds - Daily Digest: Would you like to receive ALL classified notifications ONCE A DAY via email? Yes No

Additional Questions

1. Select a membership type. If you have questions about membership types, please refer to the "Who We Are" link on our homepage. Be sure to read and consider the various participation guideines listed in the Member Handbook (found on the top navigation bar of our homepage) if considering a full-membership. A member of our Leadership Team will contact you to discuss membership options that will be a good fit for your family; please be patient - response time may take a few days.

Full Membership
Associate Membership - forum access - no classes
SSHA Associate Membership -forum access - no class
2. Cell Phone Number XXX-XXX-XXXX: 3. Name AND relationship of an emergency contact (eg. spouse, close family member, or friend, etc.) 4. Phone number of Emergency Contact listed above (XXX-XXX-XXXX): 5. Mom's Birthday (mm/dd/yy): 6. How did you find out about Vine and Branches Porter County? 7. Summarize your present condition of your spiritual life and describe your relationship with God. 8. Name of the church you and your family attends 9. Please choose the one that best describes your church situation: Members
Attends Regularly
Attends Occasionally
10. Do any of your children have a physical condition, learning disability, emotional disorder, medical condition (including allergies), or been expelled from public/private school that we should be aware of? yes
no
11. If yes, please explain; if no, please respond n/a: Vine and Branches Statement of Faith & Values

GOD: We believe there is one true and living God who is eternally existent in three persons: God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit. ( 1Jn. 5:4-7, Jn. 16:13-15)

CREATION: We believe the world was created by God. (Gen. 1:1, Jn. 1:3)

THE BIBLE: We believe the Bible is the verbally inspired, inerrant, infallible, and wholly authoritative Word of God. (2 Tim. 3:16)

SIN: We believe that all have sinned and fallen short of God’s glory. (Rom. 3:23-24)

GOD’S LOVE: We believe God demonstrated His love for lost and sinful humanity by sending his only son, Jesus Christ, to die in our place to save us from our sins, was buried, and then rose again on the third day. (1 Cor. 15:4, Jn. 3:16-19, Rom. 5:8)

HOLY SPIRIT: We believe the Holy Spirit convicts people of their sin and indwells, illuminates, guides, equips and empowers believers for Christ-like living and service. (1 Cor. 3:16, Gal. 5:16, 20-22)

SALVATION: We believe salvation is offered as a free gift to the sinner, brought to man by grace and received by personal faith in the Lord Jesus Christ, whose death and resurrection paid the penalty for the sin of man. (Rom. 6:23, Eph. 2:8-9)

MARRIAGE: We believe that God wonderfully and immutably creates each person as male or female, and that these are the only two, distinct and complementary sexes. We believe God created marriages to be the exclusive union between a man and a woman. (Gen. 1:27-28, Eph. 5:22-23, Matt. 19: 4-6)

FAMILY: We believe the God-ordained authority and responsibility given to parents for the raising and nurturing of their children includes directing their children’s educational development and equipping them to live in a manner that brings glory to God. (Prov. 22:6, Deut. 6:5-9, Rom. 13:1-10, Eph. 6:1-4)

UNITY: We believe in the spiritual unity of believers through our common faith in Jesus Christ and though individual doctrinal differences may exist, they should not hinder the unity of Christian home educators. (I Cor. 1:10, Eph. 4:11-13) 12. Do you agree with our Statement of Faith and Values? Yes
No
13. If no, please take a moment to explain, (if yes, respond n/a). 14. If you do not agree with our Statement of Faith but desire to be a part of Vine and Branches, do you understand and agree to respect our differing views and agree to abide by Vine and Branches policies? Yes
No
n/a -I agree with V&B Statement of Faith
Participation Requirements, Expectations, & Agreement 15. 1. I understand that attendance by all involved in Vine and Branches (V&B) is important for the success of this ministry and I commit to be in attendance at co-op each week, to be on time, and to be prepared for class for the entire semester. I also understand that consistent late arrivals, early departures, and multiple absences affect the ability of V&B to function effectively.

2. I understand each family member who attends co-op is expected to be in attendance and participate in all 3 class periods (including a prayer group for participating parents). Knowing that co-op begins at 8:45am and ends at 12:30pm every Wednesday, I commit to being punctual and reliable on each scheduled day.

3. I understand the minimum teaching requirement is that one parent from each family will be willing to teach or lead one class per semester unless a special exemption has been granted by V&B for that semester. Teaching can take many forms to include: being the primary teacher, team teaching with another parent, preparation for preschool classes, etc… This requirement is in place to help divide the work load amongst all participating families. V&B will work with you to find a good fit, help you work within your giftedness, and come alongside you to help you grow in this area.

4. I understand that as a teacher or as an assistant I need to be prepared for class each week. I will read and be aware of the teacher/assistant responsibilities form. I will also read and be informed with the classroom behavior, modesty guidelines, and disciplinary procedures forms. I understand that both teachers and assistants need to be engaged with and encouraging the students during each class time.

5. In addition to teaching or assisting in classes each week, I understand that a minimum of one parent from each family is required to actively participate in the administration of V&B by assuming a role with a pre-established team (Serving Opportunities & Field Trips Team, Activities and Connections Team, Resource & Finance Team, and Scheduling & Planning Team). This usually includes attending periodic meetings outside of Wednesday co-op class times. I also commit to making this team a priority and play an active role on my assigned team. Each team leader will work with everyone on their team to find a good fit for them. This enables V&B to run smoothly with an equal division of labor so that no family is overburdened.

6. I understand that communication is an important part of being a participant in an educational co-op and that having the ability to receive regular/daily Vine and Branches notifications via this website is imperative. I commit to doing my part by checking the website regularly and responding to any communication regarding myself or any member of my family.

7. I will communicate and discuss with V&B leadership if there is any reason that I am unable to fulfill these commitments. V&B wants every member to participate but understands that grace can be extended in unique situations. There is, however, an assumption that every family will follow through on these requirements unless there has been approval for an alternative. I understand that each member needs to be committed equally and not fulfilling these requirements and expectations could jeopardize my current participation in V&B or my membership in the future.

Do you understand and agree to all of the above? Yes
No
N/A

Code of Conduct and Dress Code

These behavior guidelines are set up to ensure the safety and enjoyment of all involved in our Vine and Branches (V&B) Co-op. They are goals implemented so we can seek to love others and put their best interests first. If unacceptable behavior is found in a student during class time, they will be approached by either a teacher or classroom assistant. If a student shows a great amount of disrespect or lack of submission to the authority of the instructor, his/her parents will be informed by either the teacher or by a member of the leadership of V&B. Parents will be given the opportunity to correct the situation. If the behavior persists, then the leadership reserves the right to ask that parent to remove the child who is unwilling to abide by co-op policy. Parents are ultimately responsible for their own children and all damages incurred by their children to property of Liberty Bible Church or the V&B co-op. The following are the expectations and guidelines of our Vine and Branches co-op:

1. Vine and Branches parents and children are exhorted to conduct themselves in a Christ-like manner, remembering that we are all in the Body of Christ. Specifically in our various classes and activities, volunteer organization leaders are to be given respect, cooperation, and cheerful obedience. All members will seek to teach and encourage good stewardship in caring for the facility, equipment and property of others. All members will seek to teach and encourage the welcoming, courteous, cooperative and respectful treatment of others. Destructive, rude or suggestive language, swearing or cursing, and ridicule of teachers or other students will not be tolerated.

2. All Vine and Branches members will seek to give a "good report" of others, and teach and encourage the Biblical example of keeping right relationships with one another. As parents, we share the goal of godly behavior and agree to assume responsibility and to address situations as they arise with the children in the group. (Ephesians 4:29; Colossians 3:12-14; Hebrews 10:24)

3. Cell phones, mp3 players, hand-held video games, or other electronic devices may not be used during class time. These items will be taken away from the student and returned to the parent if used.

4. Children are expected to attend the classes in which they are enrolled. Teen students will not be allowed to spend unchaperoned time alone with a student of the opposite sex during their time at co-op.

5. Vine and Branches does not wish to impose specific dress requirements. However, all V&B members are asked to dress modestly, and in a conservative manner appropriate for the season based on a desire to be pleasing to the Lord as an image bearer and to avoid causing a brother or sister to sin or stumble. Examples of inappropriate clothing include but are not limited to:

Women/Girls: Tight fitting or low-cut clothing, clothing that exposes the midriff, low-rise pants unless a long shirt covers the hip area, short-shorts, skirts or dresses well above the knee, see through clothing, and “spaghetti straps”.
Men/Boys: Tight fitting clothing, clothing that exposes the midriff, muscle shirts, baggy pants that expose underclothing, shirts that expose the chest, clothing with rebellious, profane, or occult symbolism (skulls and death themes, hard rock or metallic rock bands), and clothing that promote secular rock bands or music (out of respect for others).

If a student is seen not following the above policy, their parent will be informed and they will be asked to cover themselves with a jacket or be required to change clothing.

When/if your student is participating in a physical education class of any sort, please have your student wear appropriate shoes and clothing. 16. Have you and your students read the V&B Code of Conduct and Dress Code and agree to comply as specified above? Yes
No
Participation Agreement & Media Release 17. I acknowledge that participation in activities sponsored by Vine and Branches (V&B), Porter County may involve risk to the Participants listed above (and to Participant’s parents or guardians if participant is a minor)and may result in various types of injury including, but not limited to, the following: sickness, bodily injury, death, emotional injury, personal injury, property damage, and financial damage. I have indicated all allergies and medical issues for Participants in this application. I authorize the V&B leadership to approve any medical treatment they deem necessary.

In consideration for the opportunity to participate in V&B, Porter County activities, the Participants (or the parents/ guardian if the Participant is a minor), acknowledges and accepts the risks of injury associated with participation in and transportation to and from the activities. The Participant (parent/guardian) accepts personal financial responsibility for any injury or other loss sustained during the activity, as well as for any medical treatment rendered to the Participant that is authorized by the Sponsor or its agents, volunteers, or other representatives (collectively referred to hereinafter as the “Activity Sponsor”). Further, the Participant (or parent/guardian) releases and promises to indemnify, defend, and hold harmless the Activity Sponsor for any injury arising directly or indirectly out of the described Activity or transportation to and from the Activity, whether such injury arises out of the negligence of the Activity Sponsor, the Participant, or otherwise.

I further grant V&B, Porter County the right to, without reservation or limitation, to capture the image of the Participant in photos or video and I hereby voluntarily and without compensation grant V&B, Porter County and its affiliated organizations involved in the activity permission to use the photographic/video image(s) taken of me, or of anyone listed above for whom I have legal responsibility for any publication, presentation, exhibit, video, or other print or digital format for V&B purposes.

If a dispute over this agreement or any claim for damages arises, the Participant (or parent/guardian) agrees to resolve the matter through a mutually acceptable alternative dispute resolution process. If the participant (or parent/guardian) and the Activity Sponsor cannot agree upon such a process, the dispute will be submitted to a three-member arbitration panel for resolution pursuant to the rules of the American Arbitration Association.

I further certify that I am the parent(s) or legal guardian of the child(ren) listed above on this membership request.

I acknowledge that if anyone is hurt or property is damaged during my participation in a V&B, Porter County activity, I may be found by a court of law to have waived my right to maintain a lawsuit against V&B Porter County and Liberty Bible Church on the basis of any claim from which I have released them herein. I have had sufficient opportunity to read this entire document. I understand this Agreement and I voluntarily agree to be bound by its terms.

Yes
No
Volunteer Application 18. What other children’s/youth work experience do you have? (Please list Organization, Program, Dates, and Contact for each.) Have you at any time ever: 19. • Been arrested for any reason? yes
no
20. • Been convicted of, or pleaded guilty or no contest to, any crime? yes
no
21. • Engaged in, or been accused of, any child molestation, exploitation, or abuse? yes
no
Are you aware of: 22. • Having any traits or tendencies that could pose any threat to children, youth, or others? yes
no
23. • Any reason why you should not work with children, youth, or others? yes
no
24. If the answer to any of these questions is “yes,” please explain in detail; if no, mark "n/a": 25. Church Activity

What church or churches have you attended in the past five years? (Please list Church Name, Pastor's Name, and Years Attended for each.) References (Other than relatives). Please provide two. 26. Reference #1 Name: 27. Relationship: 28. Address: 29. Phone: 30. Reference #2 Name: 31. Relationship: 32. Address: 33. Phone: Children’s/Youth Volunteer Verification Agreement 34. I recognize that Vine & Branches Porter County is relying on the accuracy of the information I provide on the Children’s/Youth Volunteer Application form. Accordingly, I attest and affirm that the information I have provided is absolutely true and correct.

I authorize the organization to contact any person or entity listed on the Children’s/Youth Volunteer Application form, and I further authorize any such person or entity to provide the organization with information, opinions, and impressions relating to my background or qualifications.

I voluntarily release the organization and any such person or entity listed on the Children’s/Youth VolunteerApplication form from liability involving the communication of information relating to my background or qualifications. I further authorize the organization to conduct a criminal background investigation if such a check is deemed necessary.

I have carefully read the policy and procedures of the organization, and I agree to abide by them and to protect the health and safety of the children or youth assigned to my care or supervision at all times. I agree
I do not agree

I understand that submission of this application does not guarantee membership.

I hereby certify that all of the information provided by me in this application is correct, accurate and complete to the best of my knowledge. I understand the the falsification, misrepresentation or omission of any facts in said documents will be cause for membership termination. I acknowledge that I have read, understand, and agree to abide by all the policies set forth in this application and that I am responsible for ensuring my family complies with co-op policies.

By my e-signature verification below, I verify that I understand that electronic signatures are legally binding and have the same meaning as handwritten signatures. I confirm that this electronic signature is to be the legally binding equivalent of my handwritten signature and that the data on this form is accurate to the best of my knowledge. 35. Signature:

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