One of the main concerns of charities and volunteer organizations is their budget. These organizations rely on the generosity and goodwill of others, so ensuring that resources are used wisely is always a primary focus. Even though they are not being paid, volunteers often work in the same capacities as regular employees and often carry some of the same liabilities. That is why thorough background screening is so important for charities and nonprofits. Most volunteers sign up as an act of goodwill; however, there are always those individuals who pose a risk to the people that a charity is trying to help.
It is very important that background screening be an integral part of the hiring process for anyone who will be working with children, the elderly, disabled individuals, or any other group of vulnerable individuals. These types of volunteers include church volunteers, school volunteers, people who volunteer on youth sports teams and senior citizen centers, and people who work with the mentally ill. Charities and nonprofits should also conduct background screening on anyone in charge of collecting donations of money or equipment, etc., because these activities are major opportunities for fraud.
The bottom line is that when charities and nonprofits incorporate background screening as part of their “hiring” process, they help to ensure the safety of vulnerable populations such as children and the elderly, and they protect their organization from negligence claims. They also help to safeguard against theft and fraud related to donated resources, and they protect themselves from costly public relations nightmares.
For more information on our background screening services call 1-800-348-0511 or click here to request a free quote.