Volunteer Resource Packet   

Selecting Volunteers and Establishing Safe Environments

In Extension Youth Development Programs

 

Volunteers and Extension Professionals:

“Together, caring for Extension participants in youth programs.”

Updated August, 2005  

OVERVIEW  

Volunteer Screening Process

 The intent of the University of Florida IFAS Extension Child Protection Policy is to share a common philosophy and follow appropriate protocol to provide safe and secure environments for everyone involved in Extension youth programs.

 

Two sections of the Child Protection Policy include:

I.                     Careful selection and screening of adults who work with youth in Extension programs.

II.                   Establishing safe environments for everyone in Extension youth programs.

 

PURPOSE

This policy provides an opportunity to:

A.     Reaffirm the organization’s dedication to youth and their well-being.

B.     Carefully select adults to work in University of Florida IFAS Extension youth programs.

C.    Establish policies that will help provide a safe, positive environment for all participants.

D.    Provide education and resources to detect and prevent child maltreatment, and establish barriers to unsafe situations in Extension youth programs.

E.     To provide documentation of volunteer selection for coverage under the State of Florida Tort Claims Act.

 

RATIONALE

  1. A selection and screening process is a method of strengthening recruitment and placement of volunteers and staff in University of Florida IFAS Extension youth programs.

  2.  When all volunteer and paid staff are purposefully selected and requested to uphold high standards, there is increased credibility of all individuals working in University of Florida IFAS Extension youth programs. 

  3. Every University of Florida IFAS Extension youth program consistently meets acceptable standards for safety and well-being of participants.  

  4. The University of Florida IFAS Extension program joins youth-serving organizations across the nation to institute similar policies. 

  5. Courts are finding employers liable for negligent hiring and placement of employees/volunteers.

This policy is developed in accordance with the rules and statutes of the University of Florida .

6Cl-3.0031 Finance and Administration:Volunteers

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