University policy (rev. 06/24) authorizes MU Extension to request a background check for volunteer applicants (including trainees) and existing volunteers, regardless of their intended role or involvement with youth programs, prior to accepting or retaining the individual(s) as an approved MU Extension volunteer. The background check may include, but is not limited to, criminal and other public records subject to any limitations imposed by applicable federal and state law. Certain disqualifying convictions or knowledge of pending criminal charges may be reason to delay or withhold acceptance of applicants and may lead to suspension or removal from the program for current volunteers.
Attention Extension Master Gardeners who work with youth
As an Extension Master Gardener working with youth, you are required to complete a background check and an annual youth protection training, as part of University of Missouri Extension’s policies.
Your local Extension Master Gardener Coordinator will get you started by enrolling you for youth-related volunteer work. After that, you will receive two emails:
- The first email will be from UM Youth Programs which will include a link to complete the youth protection training, and
- The second email will be from Sterling Volunteers inviting you with a custom link to set up an account and authorize your background check.
The background check is confidential and processed securely through Sterling Volunteers. Once it is complete, you’ll receive a confirmation email.
Disclosure regarding volunteer background report
University of Missouri Extension may obtain from Sterling Volunteers a background screening (“REPORT”) that contains background information about you in connection with your Master Gardener volunteer application. If you are accepted into a Master Gardener volunteer position, to the extent permitted by law, the MU Extension Director of Volunteer and Risk Management may obtain from Sterling Volunteers further reports through periodic rescreening during your time as a Master Gardener volunteer without providing further disclosure or obtaining additional consent.The REPORT may include, but is not limited to, criminal and other public records subject to any limitations imposed by applicable federal and state law. This information may be obtained from public records including government agencies and judicial records.
If you give consent to have a background screening conducted, contact your local Extension Master Gardener Coordinator (local contacts can be found at the link below) to begin the process.