| One issue facing many organizations is whether to | | | | volunteer be setting a clear example? However, |
| run background checks on their volunteer | | | | those in sports coaching positions at a local YMCA |
| workers. But, if you look at several organizations, | | | | or recreation center are like school gym teachers |
| such as a local youth sports team or the library, | | | | or coaches and, with the exception of pay, the |
| the volunteers in these positions are essentially | | | | duties aren't significantly different. Should either |
| doing part-time work without pay. Just because | | | | individual, in these cases, be exempt from having |
| someone isn't being paid, does that mean he or | | | | his or her background examined? |
| she shouldn't have his background examined? | | | | Another issue to examine in both of these |
| Although many organizations might not have the | | | | instances is safety. Those who are the most |
| funds to pay those in volunteer positions, the cost | | | | vulnerable, such as children, the disabled, and the |
| of a background check should be footed | | | | elderly, may be more susceptible to abuse when |
| somehow - either by the organization or the | | | | the volunteer doesn't receive a background check. |
| volunteer. Particularly for those interacting with | | | | Nearly anyone can apply to a volunteer position, |
| children, the elderly, or the disabled, having a clear | | | | but that doesn't mean anyone should be doing the |
| background is necessary. | | | | job. Think of it like an internship: If not everyone |
| The difference in volunteer and full or part-time | | | | has the exact skills or background needed for the |
| work often doesn't vary, but, of course, that also | | | | position, albeit a free one, should everyone still be |
| depends on the organization. For someone | | | | doing it? |
| participating in an organization like Big Brothers, Big | | | | In all cases, no. Just as a company offering an |
| Sisters, the duties of the volunteer position are | | | | internship screens its applicants based on skills and |
| essentially being a mention and the volunteer is | | | | backgrounds, organizations looking for volunteers |
| nearly thrust into the same position as any parent | | | | should do the same by conducting background |
| or teacher. And, being a mentor, shouldn't the | | | | checks on everyone. |