To nonprofit organizations, volunteers are so much more than temporary helpers. They’re the lifeblood that lets a nonprofit thrive. They are administrators, fundraisers, cheerleaders, advocates and anything else that can drive an organization’s purpose forward.

The actions of volunteers make or break a nonprofit’s success. Genuine, reliable volunteers can boost a nonprofit’s integrity and increase its impact, but dishonest volunteers put nonprofits’ finances and reputations at risk.

So, how do you make sure your organization recruits excellent volunteers? Background checks. Here are the top 3 reasons nonprofit volunteers need background checks:

Public Safety

Volunteers who assist with events, fundraisers and outreach efforts are the face of an organization. Their exchanges with the public define how the organization is perceived, and it is the duty of volunteers to ensure everyone is comfortable and safe.

Running background checks on potential volunteers gives you peace of mind that your volunteers will treat the communities you serve with respect. Many nonprofits work with vulnerable populations like children and the elderly, and volunteers who interact with them must be screened. If an incident occurs and you did not background check your volunteers, you could be held responsible for the incident. Background checks keep the community you serve safe and allow you to trust your volunteers.

Volunteer Dedication

In order to grow your volunteer base with caring, dedicated volunteers, you must build a positive volunteer work environment. If volunteers steal, lie or take advantage of an organization, distrust becomes rooted in its culture.

Potentially wonderful volunteers will be wary of participating in the organization for fear of an unpleasant experience.

Nonprofits must make volunteers feel valued and secure to earn their loyalty. Background checks help you make informed decisions about which volunteers will foster a constructive work environment. Once you establish your organization as a great place to volunteer, your number of dedicated volunteers will increase.

Reputation Management

When people donate to a nonprofit, they trust the money they give will be used wisely. When people bring their families to a nonprofit’s event, they trust they will be safe. Public trust is required to maintain a nonprofit’s relevance. However, one wrong move from a volunteer can wreck the public’s confidence and leave the nonprofit in ruin.

Background checks allow you to verify your volunteers are ethical. Volunteers who handle donations honestly and treat others kindly will boost trust in your organization. People can tell when an organization has integrity. Build a good reputation through your volunteers, and people will be proud to support you.

Volunteers can be your nonprofit’s greatest asset. They can promote your purpose while giving your organization credibility. One Source’s comprehensive background check services help you choose your volunteers with confidence. Follow the link to learn more about One Source.