Volunteer Screening & Establishing Safe Environments
2005, University of Florida, IFAS Extension.
- Florida 4-H Mission
- Purpose
- Rules of the University of Florida
- Which Volunteers are Screened?
- Screening Process Steps
- 4-H Volunteers' Responsibility
- Volunteer Screening In-service
Florida 4-H Mission
Florida 4-H creates supportive environments for diverse youth and adults to reach their fullest potential.
Purpose
This policy provides an opportunity to:
- Reaffirm UF IFAS Extension’s dedication to youth and their well-being.
- Carefully select adults working with youth.
- Provide safe, positive environments.
- Provide education and resources.
- Document positive risk management.
Rules of the University of Florida
"Each person wishing to become a volunteer shall furnish to the appropriate department/operational unit, such personal… information as may be necessary for the determination of… suitability as a volunteer. The department… seeking volunteer services shall be responsible for the screening and selection of volunteers." 6CI-3.0031 (3a)
Which Volunteers are Screened?
Every Extension volunteer who works directly with youth
- on an ongoing basis (3 or more times annually) or
- for an overnight situation.
Specific examples:
- Club/project volunteers
- County resource volunteers
- District/State volunteers who manage events
- Parents who supervise other youth
- Camp counselors
- Chaperones
- Hosts for interstate/international exchanges
- Any volunteer who has had a 1 year break
Screening Process Steps
- Volunteer submits application
- Volunteer signs Adult Agreement
- Extension obtains copy of applicant’s drivers license
- Extension conducts background check (Levels I, II and III)
- Extension checks 3 references
- Extension talks with applicant (interview)
4-H Volunteers' Responsibility
To protect those who can not protect themselves.
Always help care for children
- Watch for major behavior changes
- Listen for warning signs
- Respond to warning signs
24-Hour Florida Abuse Hotline
- Phone: 1-800-96-ABUSE (1-800-962-2873)
- Fax: 1-800-914-0004
Together, caring for Extension participants in youth programs.
Volunteer Screening In-service
Click on the following links to open files for the Volunteer Screening In-service.
Resource Guides:
- Selecting Volunteers and Establishing Safe Environments (MS Word)
- Child Protection Policy (MS Word)
Presentations:
- Volunteer Screening and Establishing Safe Environments (PowerPoint)
- Youth Protection Policy (PowerPoint)
For more information on these materials, contact Dr. Marilyn Norman at mnorman@ifas.ufl.edu.
- Back to Risk Management
