Volunteers often work in trusted roles serving meals, mentoring youth, assisting the elderly, or representing your organization in the community. While their impact can be powerful, the risk of placing the wrong person in the wrong role can be just as significant. That’s why a structured, thoughtful volunteer screening process is essential.
Here’s a look at the most important types of background checks for volunteer positions and why each matters.
1. Criminal Background Check
Why it matters:
This is the foundation of any volunteer screening program. A criminal background check helps identify past offenses that may disqualify someone from working in sensitive environments.
What to check:
- National criminal database
- County/state-level criminal records
- Federal criminal records (if applicable)
Note: For roles involving vulnerable populations, recent or serious offenses should be closely reviewed.
2. Sex Offender Registry Check
Why it matters:
Many volunteers interact directly with children, the elderly, or other vulnerable individuals. A sex offender registry check ensures you are not placing these populations at risk.
Recommended for:
- Youth programs
- Senior services
- In-home visitations
- Community outreach events
3. Identity Verification
Why it matters:
Confirming a volunteer’s identity ensures you’re checking the correct person and helps prevent individuals from applying under false names to hide their past.
Best practices:
Use official identification, cross-reference with SSNs or other government records, and ensure the background check provider has a reliable verification process.
4. Driving Record Check (MVR)
Why it matters:
If volunteers will be transporting clients, driving for deliveries, or operating vehicles on behalf of your organization, you need to ensure they have a safe driving history.
What to check:
- Valid license
- Moving violations
- DUI or reckless driving history
- Insurance coverage (if using personal vehicles)
5. Reference and Employment Verification
Why it matters:
Volunteers may not be paid employees, but understanding their background, reliability, and prior conduct can help you place them in roles where they’ll thrive, and avoid situations that could lead to harm or liability.
Tip: Ask references about work ethic, temperament, and any red flags.
A Proactive Approach Builds Safer Communities
Screening your volunteers is not about doubting their intent, it’s about protecting your clients, staff, mission, and reputation. With the right checks in place, you can confidently welcome volunteers who are not only passionate but also trustworthy.
A professional background screening partner can tailor your process based on risk level, regulatory needs, and the specific roles your volunteers will fill.
Safe volunteering starts with smart screening. If you’d like help creating a compliant, efficient, and cost-effective program, the Swailes Background Check team is here to support you.
Need Help with Background Checks or Compliance?
Whether you’re hiring new talent or updating your screening processes, the Swailes Background Check team is here to help. From criminal background checks and FCRA compliance to drug testing, employment and education verifications, MVR reports, credit history reviews, and Social Security number validation, we provide fast enrollment and expert support every step of the way.
Contact us today to streamline your screening process with confidence.