There are a number of different types of background checks that can be conducted both during the hiring process and after employment to maintain the quality and safety of your workforce. The specific background check you choose will depend on the position you are filling and the level of risk associated with that position.
Some common types of background checks for nonprofits we offer at Barada Associates include:
Criminal Background Check
While criminal background checks are crucial for most industries, they hold even greater weight in the nonprofit world. These checks search for a criminal record, including convictions and arrests for crimes such as theft, violence, and fraud to help mitigate the risk of placing someone with a history of violence, abuse, or fraud, in a position of trust, safeguarding the vulnerable populations you serve.
A criminal history check also builds trust with donors and funders, many of whom require them for specific grants or programs.
Employment History Check
Employment verification involves contacting previous employers to confirm job titles, dates of employment, and reasons for leaving. These checks aim to provide a clearer picture of the candidate’s professional background and help the organization make informed hiring decisions that align with its mission and values. Most importantly, an employment history screening can reveal any falsified information in an application, whether intentional or unintentional.
Education Verification
Similar to employment verification, an academic history check ensures the information your job candidates provide is accurate and true. This protects your nonprofit organizations from hiring unqualified individuals. An education background check from Barada Associates will confirm an applicant’s degree, university, graduation date, certificates, awards, and related information.
Drug & Alcohol Screening
Drug and alcohol checks for nonprofit organizations can involve various methods such as urine tests, hair tests, or oral fluid tests to detect the presence of controlled substances. The specific type of check and the substances screened may vary depending on the organization’s policy, the position’s risk level, and applicable federal, state, and local laws.
It’s important to note that a drug and alcohol test should follow strict legal guidelines and be accompanied by a clearly defined drug and alcohol policy outlining expectations and consequences.
Reference Checks
A reference check is the process of contacting former employers, supervisors, colleagues, or character references to glean insights into a candidate’s work ethic, skills, and suitability for a role. In the world of nonprofits, where trust and responsibility are paramount, reference checks go beyond simple formalities and allow employers to get a glimpse into who a candidate is based on information that can’t be found on their resume.
Contact Barada Associates to schedule a range of nonprofit background checks today.