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The Essential Guide to Background Checks for Volunteers
Conducting thorough background checks is crucial for maintaining safety and compliance when launching a nonprofit organization that involves volunteers working closely with vulnerable populations, such as foster children.
Understanding how the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) applies to volunteers can guide nonprofits in conducting lawful and effective screenings.
Here’s an exploration of the key considerations and steps involved.
1. Understanding FCRA Compliance for Volunteers
The FCRA governs how background checks must be handled. It applies to volunteers similarly to employees, particularly in environments involving children, the elderly, and disabled individuals. Nonprofits must adhere to FCRA guidelines, which include obtaining written consent from the volunteer before conducting the check, providing a copy of the report to the volunteer, and following proper adverse action procedures if the report negatively affects the volunteering opportunity.
2. Components of a Volunteer Background Check
A comprehensive volunteer background check might include checks for criminal records, sex offender registries, and, depending on the role, driving records or financial history.
3. Mitigating Risk and Ensuring Safety
Beyond FCRA compliance, nonprofits should consider additional steps to protect participants and reduce liability. This includes setting clear policies for interaction between volunteers and children, regular training on safety protocols, and possibly setting up a monitoring system to oversee activities.
4. Selecting the Right Background Check Provider
It’s essential to choose a background check provider who is familiar with the unique needs of nonprofits and can ensure compliance with FCRA and other relevant laws. Some providers might not offer services for nonprofits due to specific compliance requirements; therefore, verifying that a provider can accommodate your nonprofit’s needs is critical. Look for providers specializing in or explicitly stating that they cater to nonprofit organizations.
5. Educational Resources and Legal Advice
Nonprofits should consider consulting with legal experts specializing in volunteer organizations and child protection to gain a deeper understanding and ensure all legal bases are covered.
Additionally, reputable organizations such as the National Council of Nonprofits and similar entities often provide resources and guidance on best practices for background checks and volunteer management.
Further Learning
To better understand the complexities of background checks for volunteers, check out the following resources:
- National Council of Nonprofits: This organization offers resources and guides about conducting background checks and managing volunteers compliantly.
- Fair Credit Reporting Act: Understanding this law is crucial, and the FTC provides detailed information.
By carefully selecting the right background check provider and ensuring compliance with all relevant laws, your nonprofit can protect its participants and operate more effectively.
Remember, safeguarding the vulnerable populations you serve is paramount, and thorough background checks are vital to this process.