Background checks are a vital tool for nonprofits to ensure safety, trust, and compliance in their operations. This article explores how advancements in technology have made these screenings more accessible, the key factors to consider when deciding who to screen, and how to create a balanced policy that protects both your organization and the communities you serve.
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Background checks are your nonprofit's secret weapon for keeping operations safe, trustworthy, and running smoothly. What used to be an expensive and time-draining process is now easier than ever, thanks to technology making background checks accessible for nonprofits of all sizes.
Whether you’re just starting out or looking to level up your current process, understanding how and when to use these screenings can help you protect your team and the communities you serve.
Thanks to advancements in technology, background checks have transformed from a costly hassle into a standard practice for nonprofits. With more than 80-90% of organizations now screening at least some of their volunteers, background checks are becoming essential for creating safe and trustworthy environments.
Beyond being a best practice, legal expectations are raising the stakes. Courts increasingly view background checks as a necessary safeguard, particularly for roles involving vulnerable populations or sensitive responsibilities. Skipping this step could not only compromise safety but also expose your organization to serious legal risks and liabilities.
Deciding when to conduct background checks and creating a strong policy starts with assessing these three main areas:
Firstly, assess the roles and responsibilities of your volunteers. Tasks involving money, sensitive information, or direct contact with vulnerable populations often warrant additional scrutiny. For instance, volunteers collecting donations or assisting at fundraising events may require screening to ensure there’s no history of theft or fraud.
Similarly, consider the level of autonomy that volunteers have in a particular role. Roles with greater autonomy and limited supervision may necessitate a background check to mitigate risk. Other rules where volunteers will never be left unsupervised may not require a background check.
Lastly, consider the population with which the volunteers will interact. Working directly with children, the elderly, or individuals with disabilities, for example, necessitate thorough vetting to ensure these vulnerable populations are safe.
These three pillars are designed to be considered together and often overlap. It's important to consider the volunteer profiles at your organizationi from each of these angles to ensure everyone is properly screened to perform their duties.
In our latest podcast episode, we explore the major considerations when deciding how and when to conduct background checks on volunteers. Tune into the episode on your favorite platform:
Want to implement these steps today? Download our comprehensive guide to background checking volunteers below!
Practical tips and expert insights to help your organization recruit, onboard, and retain dedicated volunteers.
Nonprofits have to face a lot of difficulties, but their volunteer program shouldn’t be one of them. Volunteers should be one of the biggest assets every nonprofit organization has, but for many, it’s a consistent struggle and they’re not sure how to fix it.
