Better background checks for nonprofits and volunteer communities

A volunteer background check is the process of collecting information about a potential volunteer to assess whether they are qualified and eligible to join your team. Depending on your organization’s screening requirements, a volunteer background screening may include searching public records and databases, reviewing motor vehicle records, or reaching out to an individual’s previous schools or employers. This information helps nonprofits make informed decisions and helps build a trustworthy, reliable team. 

Nonprofit organizations may conduct background checks to ensure the qualifications and eligibility of the individuals looking to volunteer or join the organization as an employee.  Nonprofit background checks are often part of due diligence which helps maintain the integrity of the organization to foster trust with donors, beneficiaries, and the community. 

Background checks for nonprofits help mitigate risks which could negatively impact the organization and the vulnerable populations they serve, such as the elderly, individuals with disabilities, and students.

What shows up on a volunteer background check depends upon the type and number of  searches being conducted and federal, state, and local laws regulating background checks.

Here are common types of volunteer background checks and what may be reported:

• Criminal background checks may show records of county, state, or federal offenses, including convictions for felonies and misdemeanors.
• Driving record (MVR) checks show license type and status, suspensions, revocations, and motor vehicle-related offenses and convictions, like DUIs. This search can be especially useful when hiring for roles that involve transporting people or goods.
• Drug testing can identify current or past use of certain prescription and illicit substances or alcohol.
• Reference checks interview personal or professional contacts with a standard set of questions to learn about a individual's character and qualifications.

How long a volunteer background check takes depends on the types and number of screenings being conducted and other factors, such as the availability of online records and whether the organization is conducting searches manually or partnering with a consumer reporting agency (CRA).

To speed turnaround times and streamline the process, many employers choose to work with a background check provider, like Checkr. Our modern platform reduces manual processes to deliver faster and more accurate background checks so you can hire and onboard candidates quicker. In fact, 89% of criminal background checks are completed within one hour.

The cost of a nonprofit background check varies based on the number and type of screening, as well as who is conducting the searches. When conducting background checks on your own, you’ll often need to pay for each record requested. Partnering with a consumer reporting agency (CRA), like Checkr, can be more cost effective for nonprofit background checks. Checkr offers customizable packages starting at $29.99 per report, with bulk discounts available. 

Individuals may also wish to run a personal background check before applying for volunteer positions to preview your public records and anticipate questions and correct inaccuracies. With Checkr, personal background checks start at $49.99 per report.

The frequency of volunteer background checks depends on the laws and regulations governing your organization and your internal background check policy. If there’s not a specific law dictating how frequently a nonprofit background check must be performed, organizations can establish their own policies, such as requiring that background checks be conducted annually.

If you’re unsure what volunteer background check requirements apply to your organization or need advice ensuring compliance, your legal counsel can assist you.

Running a background check on yourself can be useful when applying for a volunteer position. It helps you understand what information the organization may see during the volunteer screening process so you can prepare for any questions. Additionally, it gives you the opportunity to address and dispute any inaccurate information in the report.

Checkr makes personal background checks simple, convenient, and affordable. Our personal background checks can include an SSN trace, sex offender registry check, global watchlist search, criminal records searches, civil searches, and driving record checks.

Background checks are often an important part of the onboarding process, helping nonprofit organizations make informed decisions about their team. Checkr offers multiple background check options to meet your screening needs, whether for volunteers or nonprofit employees. Our fast turnaround times and accurate, easy-to-read results streamline the onboarding process. Plus, our compliance tools make it easier to manage potential liability. Get started or order a personal background.