New Report Highlights Growing Safety Concerns – and Practical Solutions for Community Organizations

Survey finds nearly half of Americans worry about armed intruders at public events

MERRILL, Wis.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--As schools, faith communities and nonprofits navigate an increasingly complex safety landscape, a new report from Church Mutual Insurance Company, S.I. (a stock insurer)¹ sheds light on how organizations can better prepare for potential threats—and why many still feel vulnerable.

The white paper, “Protecting What Matters,” draws on national survey data showing that 49% of Americans express concern about armed intruders at public gatherings. The report pairs this concern with practical, accessible steps organizations can take to strengthen their safety posture.

“We’re seeing violence in places that were once considered safe havens—churches, schools, community centers,” said Pam Rushing, president – subsidiaries and chief underwriting officer. “This report is designed to help leaders take important steps to help protect their communities.”

Among the report’s findings:

• Many organizations lack basic emergency plans or training for violent incidents.
• Free tools and technologies—like emergency alert devices—are available but underused.
• Specialized insurance coverage can help communities recover after a tragedy, offering potential support for needs ranging from medical bills to crisis counseling.

The “Protecting What Matters” report arrives amid a year of high-profile incidents, including attacks on schools, health organizations and faith-based groups. According to the Gun Violence Archive, the U.S. has surpassed 300 mass shootings in 2025. In response, the report outlines practical steps for organizations, including how to run safety drills, monitor for threats and decide whether to use armed or unarmed security.

“Preparedness is about policies but it’s also about people,” said Brandon Rhone, a security consultant featured in the report. “Training staff, having a plan and knowing how to respond can help save lives.”

The full report is available at ChurchMutual.com/violence-risk-guide.

About Church Mutual

Church Mutual Insurance Company, S.I., founded in 1897, offers specialized insurance for religious organizations of all denominations, public and private K-12 schools, colleges and universities, secular and non-secular camps and conference centers, and nonprofit and human services organizations throughout the United States. To learn more, visit churchmutual.com.

^1Church Mutual is a stock insurer whose policyholders are members of the parent mutual holding company formed on 1/1/20. S.I. = a stock insurer.