Q: If I make a group invitation to other families to go on outings together, am I personally liable should something happen
I am a homeschooling mom in Tennessee and would like to try to form a group of families together so our kids can become friends. My first vision is organizing a group to have weekly outings to places like trampoline parks, local parks, the zoo, bowling, to play games, to see movies, go out to eat, hang out at someone’s home (mine or that of others in the group), etc. My second vision is forming a group to meet weekly at a store that sells tabletop games and has ample room for customers to play. As the organizer of either of these types of groups, am I personally liable should something happen to an individual of the group? Homeschooling co-ops and groups have warned me that I must have insurance to do this or risk being sued. Is that necessary?
A: Way to go- homeschooling Mom! There are some risks with being the "organizer." Is there any way your home school coop could sponsor (it likely has insurance) and you could be the volunteer that helps organize? In any event if you are going to put these groups together- use a release. You probably have seen releases before when your child goes on an activity. You need to understand a child cannot waive or release claims and a parent can't release a child's claims either. But a parent can agree they will release you from any claim they may have on their behalf and on behalf of the child and they can agree to covenant not to sue you and to hold you harmless and indemify you in the event their child later brings a claim. Again, first choice would be to get the coop or other entity to sponsor - they will have insurance and obtain a release and you volunteer to organize (make sure their releases cover your activities). Second choice- you volunteer- use a good release and pray for the safety of the children. God Bless.
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