The Red Cross recently made a public relations error. In the wake of fraudulent activity connected with Hurricane Katrina, they decided to implement a background check for all of their volunteers. Their background check release form, however, went beyond the standard waiver to examine criminal records. It included permission to pull credit reports as well. Not surprisingly, many people felt that this was very intrusive and the Red Cross ultimately removed references to credit reports from its release form.
How did the Red Cross make such a mistake? Apparently they had been considering using background checks since 2004. Like many organizations, they did not appreciate the subtleties involved in volunteer background checks. By their nature, background checks have the potential to be perceived as invasive. Since volunteers are donating time and energy to the organization, they can resent these safeguards unless they are properly introduced. Credit reports, as we explained in an earlier post, should be used sparingly. Finally, some consideration must be given to payment — who will bear the cost? Most people will not enjoy paying for the right to volunteer.
There are many valid reasons to run background checks on volunteers. When people are working with children or the elderly, or entering other people’s homes, it is valid to consider the safety of the community being served. Sad to say, volunteering to help in a disaster area can be an excellent oppoortunity to commit fraud. Virtually all catastrophes have been accompanied by crime, even September 11.
Communication is key to a successful criminal check program, whether it is used for volunteers or employees. An experienced background check company can help. A well-designed safety initiative can strengthen the morale of your oraganization.