Every nonprofit should determine if licensing or regulatory agencies have identified specific offenses that would disqualify applicants for some assignments. For positions that require substantial direct contact with children or other vulnerable populations, personal safety concerns are paramount. Therefore, the focal points of criminal history record checks for these positions are crimes against persons. Conviction for any crime in which children were involved. History of any violence or sexually exploitative behavior.
Offenses become relevant based upon the nature of the position.
For example, assisting with in-home health care could provide a paid or volunteer staff member with access to prescription medications that may tempt individuals with a history of drug abuse or those who recognize the potential street value of the drugs. The more specific a criterion is, the more useful it is for screening. Specific offenses pinpoint the areas of concern and do not unnecessarily disqualify applicants. This category encompasses everything from a single misdemeanor possession of less than an ounce of marijuana to felony racketeering. Nonprofits should consider narrowing their categories to target specific relevant offenses committed within a defined time period.