Running background checks on volunteers
For many years, employers have required a background check as an integral part of the hiring process. Nowadays, an increasing number of non-profit organizations are conducting background checks as well. As you’ll quickly see, running background checks on volunteers is a smart move in this day and age.
Why Background Checks for Volunteers Matter
Easily the most important reason to carefully screen volunteer applicants is to ensure workplace safety. However, other factors like protecting an organization from lawsuits and safeguarding the Personally-Identifying Information (PII) of donors are just as important. Best of all, background checks increase volunteer quality and retention.
What Information Is Covered in a Background Check?
As you might expect, most background checks start with a look at criminal history. Beyond that, a reasonable background check will try to find matches in public sex offender registries. Depending on the nature of a volunteer’s role, credit and motor vehicle histories may also come into play.
Privacy Regulations You Should Know About
If you’re going to run background checks on volunteers, you must follow the guidelines set forth by the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA). The background check process must be fair and transparent. Most important of all, you must disclose to applicants the nature of the background check being run.
What to Look for in a Background Check Service
The truth is that there are literally dozens of background check providers worth patronizing. Some of the most important hallmarks of a good background check service include quick turnaround times, up-to-date information, and customized plans. Ongoing background monitoring and legal compliance safeguards are equally vital. That’s why at Private Eyes, we provide all of the above and more.
The Bottom Line on Volunteer Background Checks
While they may seem like an unnecessary expense, background checks are a worthwhile investment. In the long run, they can save organizations tons of money and time by preventing unforeseen complications. Ultimately, carefully vetting prospective volunteers is in the best interests of all parties involved.
Need a thorough background check? Contact us to learn more.