background checks faqs
Why are background checks becoming required as part of the application process for Girl Scout volunteers?
In 2003, a Background Checks Task Force team was formed and tasked with engaging in discussion and discovery as to whether or not Citrus Council should conduct criminal background checks on adult volunteers. After much research, review, and feedback, Citrus Council considered implementing a policy for all adult volunteers to be required to undergo a criminal background check as part of the volunteer application process.
Conducting criminal background checks is another volunteer screening tool in the risk management process, which provides more security with the troops of girls.
Why are Social Security numbers (SSN) requested? How will my Social Security number be protected?
Social Security numbers and birthdates are necessary to run the background checks. For protection and security, service units will not have access to Social Security numbers. Only the application, which is forwarded directly to Volunteer Services by the prospective volunteer, will have the Social Security number and date of birth listed on it.
How can I submit my Social Security number?
Social Security numbers will be submitted as part of the volunteer application process, by filling out the application/consent form. You also have the option to provide your Social Security number by phone, mail, fax or in person. Although there are various ways of submitting a SSN, a signature on a background authorization form is required.
What will be the background check consist of?
The background check will search the history of any criminal records in all 50 states, including reports of felony and misdemeanor records, sex-offender registries, inmate records, and arrest information.
The background check will only search criminal records — no reports will be run on employment history or consumer credit history. We will only be searching for convictions of any criminal activities.
How long will the background check take to complete?
The actual background check takes seconds to complete with Intellicorp, but the background check cannot be completed until the completed application is received.
In order to keep volunteers engaged with our organization and allow them to become involved immediately, Citrus Council stresses the importance of sending in the application form to Volunteer Services as soon as possible for processing.
How secure is my information on the Intellicorp website?
The encryption settings on Intellicorp’s website are comparable to military and banking sites. Also, all criminal background reports only list the last four digits of a SSN.
A prospective volunteer can complete the GSUSA Volunteer Orientation prior to the application process being completed. However, a prospective volunteer will not be assigned a Girl Scout troop until the application process is complete and the criminal background check results have been reported.
What steps will be taken if any criminal history is discovered?
Citrus Council will carefully evaluate the individual’s criminal history on a case-by-case basis. Any stipulations will be reported directly to the prospective volunteer. Citrus Council’s primary concern is always to safeguard the best interests of the girls.
Can I dispute a criminal background report?
A copy of the criminal background report can be provided upon request to dispute a report. The volunteer will be able to contact Intellicorp directly to discuss the report in detail. After discussing with an Intellicorp representative, a NEW updated background report will be submitted to both Citrus Council and the volunteer.
How frequent will background checks occur?
All new prospective adult volunteers will be required to undergo a background check as part of the application process. Citrus Council will conduct background checks every three years and/or current adult members chosen at random.
