6 Keys to Successfully Screening Church Staff and Volunteers

Introduction to Effective Screening Practices

When establishing or refining a screening policy for church staff and volunteers, it's crucial to implement a robust system that protects all members of your congregation. Effective screening not only prevents potential harm but also builds trust within the community.

Organizational Preparation

Get Your System Organized

1. Assign a Responsible Leader: Choose a respected and trustworthy individual within the congregation to manage the screening process. This person should have skills in handling confidential information and ideally possess experience in human resources.

2. Develop a Secure Filing System: All screening documents should be securely stored in a locked file cabinet, either onsite or offsite. It's vital to ensure these files are not accessible to unauthorized persons.

Risk Assessment

Evaluate the Position and Associated Risks

Assess the level of authority and control inherent in the position, the vulnerability of the congregation members involved, and the potential risks of abuse, including sexual, emotional, and financial misconduct. Tailor the screening intensity based on these risk factors.

Information Gathering

Collect Comprehensive Data from Candidates

• Application Form: Include questions that probe into any past incidents of inappropriate behavior.
• Reference Checks: Obtain a list of references from the past five years and verify them thoroughly.
• Release Form: Use a broad form that allows for full disclosure from references and enables further investigative checks.

Reference Verification

Conduct Thorough Reference Checks

Preferably in writing, ask detailed questions that can uncover any previous misconduct. The precision of your questions can significantly influence the quality of information you receive.

Public Records Screening

Check Public and Legal Records

• Criminal History: Check state and county criminal records going back at least five to seven years. Utilize state online resources where available (State Criminal Records).
• Sex Offender Registry: Consult state sex offender registries to ensure safety (National Sex Offender Registry).
• Financial and Driving Records: If relevant, include credit checks and driving history in your screening process.

Legal Compliance

Adhere to Legal Standards

Ensure compliance with the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) when using external agencies for background checks. This includes adhering to specific disclosure and notice requirements. For a detailed overview of FCRA requirements, consult legal counsel or visit FCRA Guidelines.

Conclusion

Implementing these six key strategies in screening church staff and volunteers can significantly enhance the safety and integrity of your religious community. By meticulously gathering information, assessing risks, and complying with legal standards, you can create a secure environment that fosters trust and respect among all congregation members.