SAFE SANCTUARIES BACKGROUND CHECKS

Screening methods can include interviews, written information, personal contacts, references and criminal background checks. Please note that you must first obtain a signed permission form from the applicant to run a criminal background check. Download a sample permission form here.

Once you have permission from the applicant, one option to run a local and state criminal background check is to contact your local law enforcement agency. They will provide you with information for each applicant for a fee that is not to exceed $20 per applicant. By Georgia law this background check will only include information concerning an applicant's criminal history in the state of Georgia. If the applicant has not been a Georgia resident for the last 5 years you should also obtain a national criminal background check from the FBI.

RECOMMENDED ONLINE SCREENING COMPANIES

1) The South Georgia Conference Connectional Ministries Office is currently using LexisNexis, formerly known as Securint, to conduct criminal background checks. The website address is https://expscreening.lexisnexis.com/. There is no contract to sign, nor is there a monthly fee. LexisNexis offers a variety of services that include criminal background checks, employment history, and driving history. Prices vary depending on the services you choose. If you would like more information, you can contact LexisNexis account services directly at 800-590-8535 and speak to a representative.

2) Protect My Ministry was established in 2004 as an effort to improve quality and maintain the lowest possible price for screening employees and volunteers of faith-based organizations. Protect My Ministry offers reverification and Ministry Mobilizer which helps streamline the process and cuts down on paperwork. Prices vary depending on package options. For more information call 800-319-5581 or visit their website, www.protectmyministry.com.

3) Church Mutual insurance provider works with Volunteer Select Plus. Volunteer Select Plus is committed to providing the right information at the right time, to help businesses, government, nonprofit organizations and consumers make smarter decisions in a world challenged by increased risks. For more information call 866-837-8661 or visit their website, www.volunteerselectplus.com. If your church has an account with Church Mutual there is no fee to set up an account with Volunteer Select Plus.

Regardless of which option you choose to run the background checks, all forms and reference reports should be kept as a part of an applicant's personnel file. The person responsible for the children or youth activity(ies) and/or their designee is responsible for reviewing and following up on each application prior to service.

Contact Adam Ricker at the Office of Connectional Ministries, 888-266-7642, for additional questions.