Most service opportunities require the volunteer to provide a current background check. Many churches also require a background check, particularly from volunteers having direct contact with children and minors. If you have recently (within 2 years) completed a background check (including a Vulnerable Sector Search or VSS) for coaching minor sports or volunteering within your community, please contact ServiceLink to determine if that document is sufficient for your CRCNA volunteer opportunity.
Click here to read an article from 'Volunteer Canada' on the value of screening volunteers.
If you do not have a current police background check (including a Vulnerable Sector Search or VSS), then there are a couple of options for you, although ServiceLink’s preference is that you use the online service due to its quick turnaround service and in Canada, no need to go through what could be a lengthy finger printing process.
Contact your local police department
Since the process and cost for obtaining a background check may vary, volunteers may contact their local police department for details. Make sure though that you request a check that includes a Vulnerable Sector Search or VSS. Your local police will provide you with the required form, as well as instructions. You will likely be required to provide several pieces of identification including some with your photo, and to pick up your completed background check in person. If the police request a letter to confirm that the background check is a requirement for your volunteer service, please contact either your local church or ServiceLink. In some cases within Canada, finger-printing may also be required and is determined after having gone through a regular check. This can take up to an additional 1 to 3 months.
Complete your background check online
For the convenience of our volunteers, ServiceLink has also partnered with online background check services (see links below).
In Canada - Background checks for Canadians are provided through MyBackCheck. If you prefer to do your background check online, send an email to ServiceLink to request an 'invitation' which will then be forwarded to you through MyBackCheck and will provide a direct link for you to begin the background check process. As part of the process, you will be required to present 2 pieces of identification at a local postal outlet whose staff will confirm your identity with MyBackCheck.
In the United States - Background checks for Americans are provided through SCREENINGONE, Inc. Please click on the US flag below to begin the process. If you are not able to complete this online form, please contact ServiceLink to make alternate arrangements.
