Effectively screening volunteers for youth programs
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EmailVolunteer screening is a crucial component of a quality youth program. What are the best practices?
Without exception, programs that serve youth need to conduct screening of individuals who choose to give their time as a volunteer. It doesn’t matter if all volunteers go to church or if staff will be supervising the interactions: experience has proven the importance of consistent screening of each volunteer as it helps keep youth, volunteers and the program safe.
What is screening? Screening is the process of looking into a person’s background through reference and background checks, as well as a personal interview. It also involves ensuring the volunteer is a good fit for the position. Safe Kids Thrive outlines the importance of these screening steps for volunteers that are working with youth.
This same process is utilized by Michigan State University Extension with all volunteers who work with youth or vulnerable adults. If you are looking to create a comprehensive screening process for your organization, here are some tips to assist you:
- Share a job description with the potential volunteer and make sure they are willing to meet program requirements, including the time and effort involved in the role.
- Explain the screening process and why it is important. Screening is a best practice and is required by most funders. When volunteers think about having their child or a child they care about spending time with a volunteer, many volunteers will recognize the need for screening.
- Gain written consent to conduct background checks with the volunteer application.
- MSU Extension recommends conducting a state criminal history check, sex offender registry check and a national background check.
- Use the face-to-face interview to learn about the potential volunteer and to address any red flags that arise during background and reference checks. Ask questions that will assist in the volunteer management process.
By implementing these processes, potential volunteers who wish to inflict harm are likely to look elsewhere for a program that provides easier access to children. While screening can take time, the process also saves a great deal of time by helping identify volunteers who are likely to be successful and ensuring program participants are healthy and safe.
